Post on 13-Mar-2020
Appendix II. Species Occurrence Area Justifications. The Species Occurrence Area (SOA) Justifications describe how SOAs are generated for each source feature species-feature label combination extracted from the Biotics database. The justifications also provide a review of the peer-reviewed scientific literature and/or information obtained through ENSP research that was used to support the occurrence area polygon size. The SOA justifications are sorted alphabetically by class. Use the bookmarks in this document to navigate to particular species-feature label combinations. Terms used in the SOA justifications are defined below. SpcFLID - A unique ID for each species/feature label combination. LUC - Location Use Class. A label used for aerial and marine migrants that occupy disjunct locations by season (i.e. breeding or nonbreeding). Applies to migratory species only. Feature Label - A label assigned to each occurrence that describes the occurrence type (i.e. nest, den, dead on road, etc.). Buffer Size - The radius applied to the point, line, or polygon source feature extracted from the Biotics database to generate the Species Occurrence Area (SOA). Species Occurrence Area (SOA) - A polygon specific to each species-feature label combination that is applied to all occurrences in the Biotics database and that is used to value habitat in the Landscape Project. The area of the polygon is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from information obtained through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar to those found in New Jersey. For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project maps, insufficient information exists in the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In these cases, a default occurrence area (71.25m radius) is applied to take into account locational uncertainty. Point Rule - The action applied to source feature points extracted from Biotics to generate the SOA. Line Rule - The action applied to source feature lines extracted from Biotics to generate the SOA. Poly Rule - The action applied to source feature polygons extracted from Biotics to generate the SOA. LP - Yes/No as to whether source features with a given species/feature label combination are to be incorporated in the Landscape Project mapping.
Ambystoma laterale
Blue-spotted Salamander
Justification:
Vernal habitats are utilized by a wide variety of amphibian species. A single vernal habitat and its
surrounding upland component serve as critical habitat for a diversity of Ambystomid salamanders, including
A. laterale. ENSP has determined that a buffer of 300 meters for both breeding (vernal habitat) and non-
breeding (upland component) habitat provides protection for a high percentage of the species year-round
range. The majority of Ambystomid salamanders breed in vernal pools in the spring for a limited number of
weeks and then return to the uplands for the remainder of the year. Occurrences designated as non-breeding
will mostly occur within 300 meters of a breeding habitat and therefore the occurrence area radii are the same
for both feature labels.
Literature:
Amphibia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4748 N/A On Road 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4749 N/A Vernal Pool Breeding 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4750 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4751 N/A Vernal Pool Non-
breeding
300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
8378 N/A Occupied Habitat 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Bishop, S. C. 1941. The Salamanders of New York. Bulletin 324. Albany, NY: The New York
State Museum.
Dispersals recorded past 250 m away from suitable breeding habitats.
Brown, L.J. and R.R. Jung. 2005. An Introduction to Mid-Atlantic Seasonal Pools, EPA/903/B-
05/001. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Mid-Atlantic Integrated Assessment, Ft.
Meade, Maryland. Page 10.
Seasonal pool terrestrial habitat buffer recommendation.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
Inferred minimum extent of habitat use for this species is 300 meters.
Regosin, J.V., B.S. Windmiller, R.N. Homan, and J.M. Reed. 2005. Variation in terrestrial
habitat use among four pool-breeding amphibian species and its conservation implications.
Journal of Wildlife Management 69:1481-1493.
Dispersal of > 100 meters by 52% of a blue-spotted salamander population.
Semlitsch, R. D., and J. R. Bodie. 2003. Biological Criteria for Buffer Zones around Wetlands
and Riparian Habitats for Amphibians and Reptiles. Conservation Biology 17(5): 1219-1228.
Documents home ranges surrounding breeding sites up to 290 meters.
Williams, P.K. 1973. Seasonal movements and population dynamics of four sympatric mole
salamanders, genus Ambystoma. Unpublished PhD. dissertation, Indiana University.
Documents dispersal distances of various Ambystomid salamanders.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Zarate
Lithobates virgatipes
Carpenter Frog
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from information obtained through
ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the occurrence area
polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar to those found
in NJ. For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project maps, insufficient information
exists in the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In these cases, a default
occurrence area (71.25 meter radius) is applied to take into account location uncertainty. These occurrence
areas are used to value patches of habitat.
Literature:
Amphibia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5083 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5084 N/A Vernal Pool Non-
breeding
Need
Update
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5085 N/A On Road 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5086 N/A Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5087 N/A Occupied Habitat 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5088 N/A Vernal Pool Breeding 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Zarate
Hyla chrysoscelis
Cope's Gray Treefrog
Justification:
All grasslands, wetlands, and upland forests within 300 m of the pond edge are considered to be critical
habitat for this species. Sightings of Cope’s gray treefrogs made outside of the breeding period are also
buffered by 300 m.
This species is typically associated with wetlands and ponded areas during the breeding season, but is capable
of making long distance movements through upland habitats. Breeding habitats include borrow pits, ditches,
vernal pools, detention basins, and other natural and human-made ponded areas (Zappalorti 2002). In their
2003 study, Johnson and Semlitsch suggest that a minimum core habitat of 60 m is need around breeding
ponds to protect local populations of northern gray treefrogs. Movement distances of up to 200 m were
observed in this study. One New Jersey study used radio-telemetry methodologies to determine daily
movement distance of Cope’s gray treefrogs. This study found that treefrogs were capable of moving long
distances from breeding habitats, with one individual traveling a straight line distance of 401 m in a four-day
period (Golden, unpublished data). Mean daily movement distances for Cope’s gray treefrogs in this study
were 32 m during the breeding season and 9 m outside of the breeding season. Regular movements of 100 m
during the breeding season were observed in one study from Tennessee (Ritke et al. 1991).
Literature:
Amphibia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4919 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4920 N/A Vernal Pool Breeding 300 Meter
Buffer
from Pool
Edge
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4921 N/A Vernal Pool Non-
breeding
300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4923 N/A Occupied Habitat 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4924 N/A Breeding Sighting 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
7956 N/A On Road 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Johnson, JR and RD Semlitsch. 2003. Defining core habitat of local populations of gray
treefrog (Hyla versicolor) based on choice of oviposition site. Oecologia 137:205-210.
N/A
Ritke, ME, JG Babb, and MK Ritke. 1991. Breeding-site specificity in the gray treefrog
(Hyla chrysoscelis). Journal of Herpetology 25:123-125.
Zappalorti, RT. 2002. Ecology and breeding habits of Cope’s gray treefrog (Hyla
chrysoscelis) in the coastal Pine Barrens of southern New Jersey. Unpublished report to
NJDEP, Division of Fish and Wildlife by Herpetological Associates.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Golden
Ambystoma tigrinum tigrinum
Eastern Tiger Salamander
Justification:
All emergent habitat types (forest, wetland forest, emergent wetland and adjacent barren land) within 300 m
of a pond edge are designated as critical habitat. In the brief "non-breeding" period, those habitats within 300
m of a sighting are designated as critical habitat.
Large terrestrial areas adjacent to wetlands are used by adult pond-breeding salamanders and newly
metamorphosed juveniles through the majority of the year. Semlitsch and Bodie (2003) identified a "core
habitat" for amphibians of 290 m from the wetland edge. They based this figure on studies that found adult
tiger salamanders move up to 300 m from breeding ponds (Semlitsch 1983, Madison and Farrand 1998).
Salamanders tracked by radio-telemetry made all movements within 300 m of the breeding pond; the greatest
movements were by those animals tracked the longest (Madison and Farrand 1998). They found salamanders
moved in all directions within wooded areas, but avoided grassy fields, paved roads, and commercial areas.
Habitat within 300 m of the pond is critical to survival: for a related species, marbled salamander (A.
opacum), upland survival is much better in forested habitat than in old-field (Taylor et al. 2005). In NJ, many
breeding ponds are located in abandoned sand/gravel pits where the 300 m area includes some barren land
cover type.
Tiger salamanders found >300 m from a breeding pond in the non-breeding season (8/1-9/30) may represent
movement between ponds, and the habitat should be considered a corridor for interaction of nearby
populations.
Literature:
Amphibia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4907 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4908 N/A Vernal Pool Breeding 300 Meter
Buffer
from Pool
Edge
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4909 N/A Vernal Pool Non-
breeding
300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4910 N/A On Road 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
8380 N/A Occupied Habitat 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Madison, D.M., and L. Farrand. 1998. Habitat use during breeding and emigration in radio-
implanted tiger salamanders, Ambystoma tigrinum.
N/A
Semlitsch, R. D. 1983. Burrowing ability and behavior of salamanders of the genus
Ambystoma. Canadian Journal of Zoology 61:616-620.
N/A
Semlitsch, R. D., and J. R. Bodie. 2003. Biological criteria for buffer zones around wetlands
and riparian habitats for amphibians and reptiles. Conservation Biology 17:1219-1228.
N/A
Taylor, B. E., D. E. Scott, and J. W. Gibbons. 2005. Catastrophic reproductive failure,
terrestrial survival, and persistence of the marbled salamander. Conservation Biology 20:792-
801.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Golden
Anaxyrus fowleri
Fowler's Toad
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from information obtained through
ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the occurrence area
polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar to those found
in NJ. For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project maps, insufficient information
exists in the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In these cases, a default
occurrence area (71.25 meter radius) is applied to take into account location uncertainty. These occurrence
areas are used to value patches of habitat.
Literature:
Amphibia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5128 N/A Vernal Pool Breeding 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5129 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5130 N/A Vernal Pool Non-
breeding
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5131 N/A Occupied Habitat 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5132 N/A Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
7960 N/A On Road 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Zarate
Ambystoma jeffersonianum
Jefferson Salamander
Justification:
Vernal habitats are utilized by a wide variety of amphibian species. A single vernal habitat and its
surrounding upland component serve as critical habitat for a diversity of Ambystomid salamanders, including
A. jeffersonianum. ENSP has determined that a buffer of 300 meters for both breeding (vernal habitat) and
non-breeding (upland component) habitat provides protection for a high percentage of the species year-round
range. The majority of Ambystomid salamanders breed in vernal pools in the spring for a limited number of
weeks and then return to the uplands for the remainder of the year. Occurrences designated as non-breeding
will mostly occur within 300 meters of a breeding habitat and therefore the occurrence area radii are the same
for both feature labels.
Literature:
Amphibia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5077 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5078 N/A Vernal Pool Breeding 300 Meter
Buffer
from Pool
Edge
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5079 N/A Vernal Pool Non-
breeding
300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5080 N/A On Road 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
8381 N/A Occupied Habitat 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Bishop, S. C. 1941. The Salamanders of New York. Bulletin 324. Albany, NY: The New York
State Museum.
Dispersals recorded as far as 1,610m away from suitable breeding habitats.
Brown, L.J. and R.R. Jung. 2005. An Introduction to Mid-Atlantic Seasonal Pools, EPA/903/B-
05/001. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Mid-Atlantic Integrated Assessment, Ft.
Meade, Maryland. Page 10.
Seasonal pool terrestrial habitat buffer recommendation.
Faccio, S. D. 2003. Postbreeding emigration and habitat use by Jefferson and spotted
salamanders in Vermont. Journal of Herpetology 37:479-489.
Documents dispersal distances up to 355m in one movement and macro habitat preferences.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
Inferred minimum extent of habitat use for this species is 300 meters.
Semlitsch, R. D., and J. R. Bodie. 2003. Biological Criteria for Buffer Zones around Wetlands
and Riparian Habitats for Amphibians and Reptiles. Conservation Biology 17(5): 1219-1228.
Documents home ranges surrounding breeding sites up to 290 meters.
Williams, P.K. 1973. Seasonal movements and population dynamics of four sympatric mole
salamanders, genus Ambystoma. Unpublished PhD. dissertation, Indiana University.
Documents dispersal distances of various Ambystomid salamanders.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Zarate
Eurycea longicauda longicauda
Longtail Salamander
Justification:
Very little primary literature exists on the life history of Eurycea l. longicauda. Much of the information we
know about E. longicauda derives from the occurrence data in ENSP’s Biotics Database. Ongoing research
and personal observations have also contributed to the development of the current occurrence area.
Literature:
Amphibia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4911 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4912 N/A Vernal Pool Non-
breeding
100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4913 N/A On Road 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4914 N/A Occupied Habitat 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4915 N/A Breeding Sighting 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4916 N/A Vernal Pool Breeding 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Anderson and Martino. 1966. The Life History of Eurycea l. longicauda Associated with
Ponds. The American Midland Naturalist 75(2): 257-279.
A unique association of E. longicauda with limestone sink ponds, also breeding areas for
Ambystomid salamanders, exists in New Jersey.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
Inferred minimum extent of habitat use for this species is 100 meters.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Zarate
Ambystoma opacum
Marbled Salamander
Justification:
Vernal habitats are utilized by a wide variety of amphibian species. A single vernal habitat and its
surrounding upland component serve as critical habitat for a diversity of Ambystomid salamanders, including
A. opacum. ENSP has determined that a buffer of 300 meters for both breeding (vernal habitat) and non-
breeding (upland component) habitat provides protection for a high percentage of the species year-round
range. The majority of Ambystomid salamanders breed in vernal pools in the spring for a limited number of
weeks and then return to the uplands for the remainder of the year. Marbled salamanders, on the other hand,
breed in the fall at vernal pools. Occurrences designated as non-breeding will mostly occur within 300
meters of a breeding habitat and therefore the occurrence area radii are the same for both feature labels.
Literature:
Amphibia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5073 N/A Vernal Pool Breeding 300 Meter
Buffer
from Pool
Edge
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5074 N/A Vernal Pool Non-
breeding
300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5075 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5076 N/A On Road 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
8382 N/A Occupied Habitat 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Brown, L.J. and R.R. Jung. 2005. An Introduction to Mid-Atlantic Seasonal Pools, EPA/903/B-
05/001. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Mid-Atlantic Integrated Assessment, Ft.
Meade, Maryland. Page 10.
Seasonal pool terrestrial habitat buffer recommendation.
Gamble, L.R., McGarigal, K., Jenkins, C.L., and Timm, B.C. 2006. Limitations of regulated
"buffer zones" for the conservation of marbled salamanders. Wetlands 26(2):298-306.
Documents dispersals up to 1,230 meters by marbled salamanders.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
Inferred minimum extent of habitat use for this species is 300 meters.
Semlitsch, R. D., and J. R. Bodie. 2003. Biological Criteria for Buffer Zones around Wetlands
and Riparian Habitats for Amphibians and Reptiles. Conservation Biology 17(5): 1219-1228.
Documents home ranges surrounding breeding sites up to 290 meters.
Williams, P.K. 1973. Seasonal movements and population dynamics of four sympatric mole
salamanders, genus Ambystoma. Unpublished PhD. dissertation, Indiana University.
Documents dispersal distances of various Ambystomid salamanders, including A. opacum,
outwards to 450m.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Zarate
Gyrinophilus porphyriticus porphyriticus
Northern Spring Salamander
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from information obtained through
ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the occurrence area
polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar to those found
in NJ. For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project maps, insufficient information
exists in the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In these cases, a default
occurrence area (71.25 meter radius) is applied to take into account location uncertainty. These occurrence
areas are used to value patches of habitat.
Literature:
Amphibia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5081 N/A Occupied Habitat 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5082 N/A On Road 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Zarate
Hyla andersonii
Pine Barrens Treefrog
Justification:
All wetlands, and upland forests within 300 m of the pond edge are considered to be critical habitat for this
species. Sightings made outside of the breeding period are also buffered by 300 m.
Breeding habitats for this species are documented to consist of bogs, vernal pools, cedar swamps, and pitch
pine lowlands (Means and Longden 1976). Common plant communities associated with breeding ponds
contain red maple (Acer rubrum), pitch pine (Pinus rigida), leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata), fetterbush
(Eubotrys racemosa), sheep laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), and highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum)
(Laidig et al. 2001). Mean water depths of 13 Pine Barrens treefrog breeding ponds studied by Laidig et al.
(2001) in the New Jersey Pinelands ranged from 30 to 65 cm. The maximum water depth of the same 13
ponds ranged from 55 to 124 cm. While research on the movements of Pine Barrens treefrogs is quite
limited, one study found individuals of this species stayed within 72 m of the breeding pools during the
breeding season (Freda and Gonzalez 1986). Dispersal distances were slightly higher outside of the breeding
season (up to 102 m), but still less than the documented dispersal distances of related species (Johnson and
Semlitsch 2003, Golden unpublished data). Because of the small sample size (n=8) of the Freda and
Gonzalez study, a buffer distance for sightings on this species were adapted from data published on other
treefrog specie
Literature:
Amphibia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4925 N/A Vernal Pool Breeding 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4926 N/A Occupied Habitat 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4927 N/A On Road 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4928 N/A Vernal Pool Non-
breeding
300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4929 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4930 N/A Breeding Sighting 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Johnson, JR and RD Semlitsch. 2003. Defining core habitat of local populations of gray
treefrog (Hyla versicolor) based on choice of oviposition site. Oecologia 137:205-210.
N/A
Laidig, KJ, RA Zampella, JF Bunnell, CL Dow, and TM sulikowski. 2001. Characteristics of
selected Pine Barrens treefrog pones in the New Jersey Pinelands. Unpublished reports by
the New Jersey Pinelands Commission.
N/A
Means, DB and CJ Longden. 1976. Aspects of the biology and zoogeography of the Pine
Barrens treefrog (Hyla andersonii) in northern Florida. Herpetologica 32:117-130.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Golden
Botaurus lentiginosus
American Bittern
Justification:
A study in Minnesota determined that the average home range of males and females differed considerably.
Males averaged 415 ha while females averaged 337 ha (Brininger 1996). A second study, also conducted in
Minnesota, found a significantly smaller average home range (males only) of 127 ha (n=20). However, the
average core area (where the bittern was found more than 50% of the time) was only 25 ha (Azure 1998).
These two studies led NatureServe to apply a minimum inferred extent of 0.5 km (NatureServe 2006). ENSP
will use the NatureServe minimum inferred extent of 0.5 km until such time as that is changed or we have
additional information, including New Jersey-specific data, to justify a change in this value.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4729 Breeding Nest 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4730 Breeding Foraging Need
Update
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4731 Breeding Breeding Sighting Need
Update
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4732 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4733 Breeding Roosting Area 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4734 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting Need
Update
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
Azure. 1998. Aspects of American bittern ecology in northwestern Minnesota. MS thesis.
University if North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota. 139 pgs.
In a Minnesota study where n=20, the average home range of males was 127 ha. The average size of
the core use area (defined as the area of the home range where the bittern was located >50% of the
time) was 25 ha.
Brininger. 1996. The ecology of the American bittern in northwest Minnesota. MS thesis/ St.
Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN, USA.
In Minnesota, the average home range of males was 415 ha. The average female home range was
337 ha.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
The inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 0.5 km. This is
based on an average core home range of 25 ha (Azure 1998). Include only the nesting marsh within
the boundaries of the inferred extent polygon.
Date researched: 7/1/2006
Last researched by: Davis
Falco sparverius
American Kestrel
Justification:
This species has small breeding territories but are area sensitive. The buffer was chosen based on breeding
territory size and increased for the species’ mobility and need for large patches. Until more is discovered
about the mobility of the species, a 100 meter radius buffer will be used.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5182 N/A Breeding Sighting 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5184 N/A Nest 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5185 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Smallwood, J. A., and D. M. Bird. 2002. American Kestrel (Falco sparverius). In The Birds of
North America, No. 602 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc.,
Philadelphia, PA
Tend to occupy areas > 25 ha in size. Little information is available on breeding territory size, but
estimates from breeding densities indicate territories may range from 0.5 - 1 ha.
Migratory stopover habitat consists of open patches. Wintering habitat is similar to breeding habitat
but with more woody vegetation. Winter territories range from 1.4 - 3.5 km.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Petzinger
Haematopus palliatus
American Oystercatcher
Justification:
There is very little information available for home ranges and foraging commutes of American
oystercatchers. Nol and Humphrey (1994) report that feeding areas may be further than 1600 m from nesting
areas. Tom Virzi of Rutgers University (Virzi 2008) reports that he has observed foraging adults up to 1 km,
and rarely up to 2 km, from their nesting sites. Natureserve recommends a buffer of 1.5 km when actual
extent is unknown (NatureServe 2007). ENSP will use the NatureServe minimum inferred extent of 1.5 km
until such time as that is changed or we have additional information, including New Jersey-specific data, to
justify a change in this value.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5237 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
5238 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5239 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
5240 Breeding Nesting Area 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5241 Breeding Nest 750 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].
Version 6.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: June 4, 2007 ).
The breeding inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 1.5 km.
Nol, E. and R. C. Humphrey. 1994. American Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus). In The
Birds of North America, No. 82 (A. Poole and F. Gill, Eds.). Philadelphia: The Academy of
Natural Sciences; Washington, D.C.: The American Ornithologists’ Union.
Feeding territories may be in excess of 1,600 m from breeding territories. Maximum distance
observed traveling during breeding season in Massachusetts about 3 km.
Virzi, T. 2008. Effects of urbanization on the distribution and reproductive performance of
the American oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus palliatus) in coastal New Jersey.
Unpublished doctoral dissertation, Rutgers University, New Brunswick.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davis
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Bald Eagle
Justification:
All habitats (forest, field, wetlands) within 1 km of a nest are designated as critical habitat for bald eagles.
Home range size for nesting bald eagles is variable depending on the habitat resources of the area such as
food abundance, distance to adequate foraging habitat, etc (Stalmaster 1987, Therres, et al. 1993, Buehler
2000, Harmata and Montopoli 2001). Successful and continued occupancy of a nest site by eagles is also
influenced by distance to human disturbance often associated with residential housing, roads, extractive
industries (mining, timber) and others. The 1 km radius for nest site habitat protection equals approximately
3 km2 of area. This is one-third larger than what may be the mean territory size (summarized in Buehler
2000), though local data are lacking.
Bald eagle foraging habitat is defined as the amount of habitat required to support a nesting pair of eagles
throughout the year, as breeding bald eagles are year-round residents in NJ. Bald eagles hunt in open water
for fish, waterfowl and other aquatic species, but usually do so from perches along the water’s edge
(Stalmaster 1987). The model calculates open water area by increasing the radius around each nest
incrementally one cell (30 m) at a time until an area of 660 ha of foraging habitat has been identified.
Foraging habitat is defined as all open water bodies greater than 8 ha. A 90 m buffer is applied to the
identified waters to protect perching sites. All suitable habitat patches (i.e., forest and forested wetlands) that
intersect with the foraging habitat and 90 m buffer are designated as critical for eagles.
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4871 N/A Roosting Area Hand
Digitized
Polygon
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4872 N/A Concentration Area Hand
Digitized
Polygon
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4873 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4874 N/A Foraging Bald
Eagle
Foraging
Model
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4875 N/A Nest 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4876 N/A Breeding Sighting Need
Update
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
8358 N/A Wintering 250 foot
radius
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
Wintering sites were identified using specific Eagle Midwinter Survey data and biologist interpretation of
essential habitat, as well as recorded sightings of eagles during the winter period of November 1-January 31.
Patches of suitable habitat (forest, forested wetlands, and open waters) within 500 meters of each site are
designated as critical habitat. This habitat designation was not applied in Landscape Version 1 or 2, but will
be included in Landscape Version 3. The Wintering feature label was not used in Highlands’s release of
version 3.0.
From Birds of North America (Buehler 2000): Estimates of territory size (defended part of home range) vary
widely based on nesting density, food supply, and method of measurement. Most reliable estimates based on
radio-telemetry are limited. Stalmaster (1987) suggested 1–2 km2 as typical territory size. Average territory
radius (n = 10) was 590 m in Minnesota, as measured by presentation of decoy bird to elicit defensive
reactions (Mahaffy and Frenzel 1987). Assuming circular territories, average territory size was about 1 km2.
Minimum territory size was 4 km2 for radio-tagged pair in Saskatchewan (Gerrard et al. 1992b). Spacing:
About 1 nest/1.6 km of shoreline reported historically on Chesapeake Bay (Kirkwood 1895).
Literature:
Buehler, D. A. 2000. Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). In The Birds of North America,
No. 506 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
N/A
Harmata, A. R., and G. J. Montopoli. 2001. Analysis of bald eagle spatial use of linear
habitat. J. Raptor Res. 35(2):207-213.
Primary foraging areas may need protection to maintain performance of eagles nesting along rivers.
Stalmaster, M. V. 1987. The Bald Eagle. Universe Books, New York. 227 p. Buehler, D. A.
2000. Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). In The Birds of North America, No. 506 (A.
Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Home range sizes are variable (in Florida, 2–8 km2, larger in other areas, as small as 1 km2 in
some). Minimum territory size in Saskatchewan was 4 km2 (Gerrard et al. 1992, in Buehler 2000).
Wintering habitat is defined by food availability, presence of roost sites that provide protection from
weather and absence of human disturbance (Buehler 2000).
Therres, G. D., M. A. Byrd, D. S. Bradshaw. 1993. Transactions of the North American
Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference, 58:62-69.
The effects of development activities on nesting bald eagles depend on the distance of the activities
from the nest, the view the eagles have of the activities and the time of year the development occurs.
Other factors that may contribute include the nesting history of the eagles, the birds’ previous
experience with humans, the availability of alternative nest sites and the amount of development in
the area.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Clark
Tyto alba
Barn Owl
Justification:
The breeding buffer was chosen based upon the average home range size of 717 ha in NJ (Marti et al. 2005).
This species is highly mobile and essentially use the same wintering habitat as breeding habitat (Marti et al.
2005), so the nonbreeding buffer was chosen to be the same as the breeding buffer.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5192 N/A Breeding Sighting 1500
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5193 N/A Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
1500
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5197 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 1500
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Marti, C.D., A.F. Poole, and L.R. Bevier. 2005. Barn Owl (Tyto alba). In The Birds of North
America Online (A. Poole, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology; Retrieved from
The Birds of North American Online database:
http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/BNA/account/Barn_Owl/.
Immatures disperse widely in all directions from the natal site at distances up to 1,900 km (Stewart
1952, Soucy 1980, Marti 1999). Dispersal distances for individuals banded as nestlings in Utah
ranged from 1-1,267 km (mean = 102.9 km ± 162.03 SD); females banded as nestlings bred at
distances on average of 61.4 km ± 52.04 from their natal site, significantly farther than males (mean
= 35.7 km ± 36.61) (Marti 1999). One nestling banded in an Ohio nest was recovered 1,070 km to
the northeast while its nest mate was found 800 km to the southeast (Dexter 1957). Dispersal of
young in all compass directions also detected in Europe (Glutz von Blotzheim 1979, Bairlein 1985,
Matics 2003). Time of fledging did not influence the direction of dispersal in Hungary and the sexes
did not differ in direction of dispersal (Matics 2003). Direction of dispersal was strongly affected by
major topographic features in Utah (Marti 1999).
Fidelity To Breeding Site And Winter Home Range
Typically nest at the same site as long as they live (Colvin et al. 1984, Marti 1999). Occasionally,
change nest sites but do not move long distances to do so (Colvin et al. 1984, Marti 1999); those
few breeders that changed nest sites from one year to the next in Utah moved on average 2.28 km ±
1.77 SD; no significant difference in distance between the sexes but females were >5 times as likely
as males to make those moves (Marti 1999). Many pairs occupy the same area year-round in Utah
and England and often roost in the nest site in winter (Bunn et al. 1982, Marti, pers. obs.).
Home Range
Highly variable, apparently in relation to prey density and habitat characteristics. Home ranges of
radio-tagged individuals in New Jersey averaged 717 ha; maximum distance from roost to hunting
areas was 5.6 km (Hegdal and Blaskiewicz 1984). Mean home range size in Virginia was 294 ha
(Rosenburg 1986), 369 ha in Texas (Byrd 1982), and 308 ha in Scotland (Taylor 1994). In France,
radio-tagged breeding males had home range size of >750 ha of which about 250 ha were used on
any one night (Michelat and Giraudaux 1991).
Roulin, A. 2002. Offspring desertion by double-brooded female barn owls. The Auk 119(2):
515-519.
I recorded 479 first clutches and 42 second clutches between 1991 and 2000 (Table 1). Thirty-nine
females and 23 males were involved in two breeding attempts. That difference between the sexes is
explained by the more frequent offspring desertion by females (18 out of 39 double-brooded
individuals, 46%) than males (1 out of 23, 4%; chi-square test: χ2 = 11.2, df = 1, P = 0.001). Among
the 21 nondeserting females, 14 of them changed their nest box to lay the second clutch (Table 1).
Therefore, 32 out of 39 (82%) double-brooded females used two nest boxes the same year. Among
deserting females, the two nests were located at a distance of 4 km (median; range = 1.5-10 km),
and among nondeserting females that changed their nest box the median distance was 0.5 km (range
is 2 m to 2.5 km) (Mann-Whitney U-test, U = 8.5, n1 = 14, n2 = 17, P < 0.001). In the case where
two nest boxes were fastened to the same barn, six double-brooded females used them both and four
females used only one of the two boxes.
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Strix varia
Barred Owl
Justification:
Barred owl home ranges are highly variable geographically and are generally larger during the non-breeding
season (Mazur and James 2000). Home range results identified within the literature (below) illustrate this
variability. As year-round residents to NJ, the barred owls are protected during both the breeding and non-
breeding seasons. As such, Elody and Sloan’s, 1985, estimate of home range during the non-breeding season
(282 ha) was incorporated into the ENSP’s determination of an appropriate occurrence area depicting critical
habitat. Using the home ranges 228.6 ha, 507.8 ha, and 282 ha (Nichols and Warner 1972, Fuller 1979, and
Elody and Sloan 1985, respectively), the mean home range is 339.47 ha, equivalent to 1.04 km radius.
Landscape species occurrence areas are not represented by proportional figures, therefore the ENSP has
accepted a conservative estimate by rounding this range territory to a 1 km radius (314 ha).
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4740 N/A Roosting Area 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4742 N/A Breeding Sighting 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4744 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4747 N/A Nest 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Elody, B.J. and N.F. Sloan. 1985. Movements and habitat use of barred owls in the Huron
Mountains of Marquette County, Michigan, as determined by radiotelemetry. Jack-pine
Warbler 63(1):3-8.
Average home range size was 282 ha which decreased to 118 ha during the breeding season.
Fuller, M.R. 1979. Spatiotemporal ecology of four sympatric raptor species. Ph.D.
Dissertation. University of Minnesota, St. Paul. 396 pp.
Average cumulative home range, based on minimum area, was 507.8 ha.
Mazur, K. M., and P. C. James. 2000. Barred Owl (Strix varia). In The Birds of North
America, No. 508 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia,
PA.
Nichols, T.H. and D.W. Warner. 1972. Barred owl habitat use as determined by
radiotelemetry. J. Wildlife Manage. 36(2):213-224.
Average home range was 228.6 ha, with a range of 86.1-369.0 ha.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Craddock
Laterallus jamaicensis
Black Rail
Justification:
Black rail research from different locales around the country report similar home ranges for clapper rails. In
Arizona, the average home range was 0.4 ha + 0.2 ha, with a range of 0.1 ha - 1.8 ha (Flores 1991). In
Florida, the male average home range was 1.3 ha and the female was 0.62 ha (Legare and Eddleman 2001). In
the lower Colorado River, a telemetry study revealed the average home range as 0.43 ha, with a core use area
of 0.10 ha (NatureServe 2006). The only report that deviates from this range (0.1-0.43) is from Maryland,
where the home range is suspected to lie between 3-4 ha (NatureServe 2006). The minimum inferred extent
set by NatureServe is 0.1 km. ENSP will use the NatureServe minimum inferred extent of 0.1 km until such
time as that is changed or we have additional information, including New Jersey-specific data, to justify a
change in this value.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4997 Breeding Nest 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4998 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4999 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5000 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5001 Breeding Foraging 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5002 Breeding Roosting Area 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Flores. 1991. Ecology of black rail in southwest Arizona. Final Report, US Bureau of
Reclamation, Yuma Project Office and Arizona Department of Game and Fish. Yuma, AZ.
In Arizona, California black rails had an average home range of 0.4ha + 0.2 ha. Home ranges
observed in the study ranged between 0.1-1.8 ha.
Legare. M.L., W.R. Eddleman. 2001. Home range size, nest site selection and nesting success
of black rails in Florida. Journal of Field Ornithology 72 (1): 170-7.
A telemetry study in Florida revealed that males kept an average home range of 1.3 ha, while the
females averaged 0.62 ha.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
Personal comments by R. Flores set an average home range of 0.43 ha, with a significant core size
of 0.10 ha based on a telemetry study in the Lower Colorado River. Personal comments by J.G.
Weske estimate a 3-4 ha home range for bitterns in Maryland.
The inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 0.1 km
Date researched: 7/1/2006
Last researched by: Davis
Rynchops niger
Black Skimmer
Justification:
Black Skimmers nest in colonies and feed primarily in the salt marshes, estuaries, lagoons and tidal pools
around their nest sites (Erwin 1977, Valiela 1984). There have not been exhaustive studies on the commuting
distances for black skimmers, but at least two studies have been conducted. On Long Island, New York, black
skimmers foraged < 8 km from the colony (Gochfeld and Burger 1994). In Georgia, they foraged
approximately 5.2 km from the colony (Tomkins 1951).
Since there are so few studies focusing on black skimmers, commuting distances from related species are
used to facilitate the establishment of a Landscape model. Least terns, who sometimes nest at the same sites
as black skimmers, foraged an average of 3-12 km from nesting sites (Thompson, et al 1997). California gulls
foraged an average of 17.4km with a maximum of 61 km (Baird 1977). Forster’s terns had a reported feeding
radius of 3.2 km from nesting colonies (VanRossem 1933).
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4958 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4959 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4960 Breeding Suspected Breeding
Location
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
4961 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4962 Breeding Foraging 9.6 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4963 Breeding Nesting Colony 71.25
Meter
Buffer
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
Baird, P.A. 1977. Feeding ecology of ring-billed and California gulls (Larus delawarensis and
L. californicus). Pacific Seabird Bulletin 4:16-17.
California gulls foraged an average of 17.4 kilometers from colony and maximum foraging
distances ranged from 32 to 61 kilometers. Ring-billed gulls foraged an average of 11 km from
colony.
Erwin, M. 1977. Foraging and breeding adaptations to different food regimes in three
seabirds: the Common Tern (Sterna hirundo), Royal Tern (Sterna maxima), and Black
Skimmer (Rynchops niger). Ecology 58: 389-397.
In Virginia, 88% of black skimmers fed in salt marsh tidal pools.
Gochfeld, M. and J. Burger. 1994. Black Skimmer (Rynchops niger). In The Birds of North
America, No. 108 (A. Poole and F. Gill, Eds.). Philadelphia: The Academy of Natural
Sciences; Washington, D.C.: The American Ornithologists Union.
On Long Island, New York, main feeding areas were located < 8 km from colony. Colony sites were
often located near inlets. This may reflect access to feeding areas as well as suitable substrate.
Thompson, B.C., J.A. Jackson, J. Burger, L.A. Hill, E.M. Kirsch and J.L. Atwood. 1997. Least
Tern (Sterna antillarum). In The Birds of North America, No. 290 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.).
The Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, and The American Ornithologists’
Union, Washington, D.C.
Throughout their North American range, least terns foraged 3-12 kilometers from nesting colonies.
Tomkins, I.R. 1951. Method of feeding in the Black Skimmer, Rynchops nigra. Auk 68: 236-
239.
In Georgia, black skimmers fed approximately 5.2 km from a colony.
Valiela, I. 1984. Marine ecological processes. Springer-Verlag, New York.
Black skimmers fed mainly in tidal waters of bays, estuaries, lagoons, rivers, and salt marsh pools,
creeks, and ditches. These habitats concentrate small fish.
Van Rossem, A. J. 1933. Terns as destroyers of birds' eggs. Condor 35:49-51.
Forster's terns had a reported feeding radius of 3.2 kilometers.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Davis
Coccyzus erythropthalmus
Black-billed Cuckoo
Justification:
There is little information about territories of breeding individuals so the default occurrence area was chosen
for breeding buffers. Black-billed cuckoos are not state listed during non-breeding, so it will not be included
in the Landscape Project and the default buffer was chosen.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5211 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5213 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5214 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Hughes, J. M. 2001. Black-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus erythropthalmus). In The Birds of North
America, No. 587 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia,
PA.
Breeding habitat includes groves of trees, forest edges, and thickets; frequently associated with
water. In e. Canada and ne. U.S., usually found in edges and clearings of young deciduous and
mixed deciduous-coniferous woods; abandoned farmland with trembling aspen, poplar, and birch.
Will also use brushy hillsides and pastures, roadsides, and fencerows, orchards and berry patches,
and hawthorn thickets. In wet areas, often among willows near edges of bogs and marshes, or on
lake and river shores. Occasionally found in urban areas (parks, ravines, golf courses, residential
gardens). In Pennsylvania, most frequently found in shrubbery around lakes and overgrown borders
of pine and hemlock woodlands. In ne. Ohio, prefers aspen thickets near swamps.
Little information about territoriality. Probably territorial, as is Yellow-billed Cuckoo.
May be susceptible to habitat fragmentation and modification. In Saskatchewan, abundance
correlated with grove size (p < 0.05), and not found in aspen groves smaller than 1.2 ha. In central
New Jersey, observed only on forest plots 7.5 and 24 ha in size; absent from plots ranging from 0.01
to 4 ha.
Migratory stopover habitat includes wooded areas and dense thickets during migration through
Florida. In Texas, occurs in woodlands, particularly along streams and ponds, dense borders of
meadows and margins of forests, also groves and thickets of coastal prairies. Also found near
human habitation in orchards and gardens, but remains well hidden.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Dendroica fusca
Blackburnian Warbler
Justification:
Very little literature about territory size exists on blackburnian warblers, so the breeding occurrence area was
chosen based upon the largest mean territory size of 1.1 ha reported. Blackburnian warblers are not state
listed during non-breeding, so it will not be included in the Landscape Project and the default buffer was
chosen.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5217 Breeding Breeding Sighting 60 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5218 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5219 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
60 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Morse, D. H. (2004). Blackburnian Warbler (Dendroica fusca). The Birds of North America
Online. (A. Poole, Ed.) Ithaca: Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology; Retrieved from The Birds
of North American Online database:
http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/BNA/account/Blackburnian_Warbler/.
Breeding individuals occur in coniferous and mixed coniferous-deciduous forests, especially mature
forest, but mainly inhabits deciduous forest at southern end of range. Elsewhere in range may
inhabit primarily deciduous forests at low densities. In NY, found mostly in forest with hemlocks;
even in forests with few hemlocks, almost invariably associated with these isolated trees. In New
York State and other areas with deep coniferous forests and swamp woods at higher elevations,
often prefers spruce draped with Usnea lichen. Along the Maine coast, inhabits red and white spruce
forests, but not on small islands (< 1 ha), which generally have insufficient tall vegetation to support
them. In Minnesota, found on islands of < 1 ha only if tall white pines or black spruces are
available. Can nest on islands in New York lakes comparable in size to Maine islands, but
characterized by coniferous vegetation averaging 4 m higher than in Maine. In Saskatchewan,
common in white spruce forests, but absent in black spruce and jack pine. In Ontario, mostly in
moist to dry hemlock forests, but also other types of conifer-dominated woodlands (white pine,
cedar, spruce), and some hardwoods, especially those historically dominated by American chestnut;
in southern regions of the province, has adapted to mature conifer plantations. In Quebec, most
common in mixed forest with mature balsam fir stands; nesting and feeding individuals seek tall
balsam spires, towering over rest of the canopy; highest relative abundance in sugar maple/yellow
birch/balsam fir forests; Has disappeared from some hemlock forests of Highlands Plateau, North
Carolina over the past 50 years.
Breeding territories all-purpose, and both males and females spend most of time on them. Territory
size varies with habitat: smaller where favored conifers dense than in mixed coniferous-deciduous
forests where primarily exploit conifers. Along Maine coast, territories between 0.4 and 0.6 ha in
both red and white spruce. Territories averaged 1.1 ha in a largely deciduous forest with occasional,
patchily distributed conifers, apparently in response to distribution of favored coniferous growth.
Territories in fir-spruce forest in Ontario from 0.8-0.9 ha.
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Nycticorax nycticorax
Black-crowned Night-heron
Justification:
Nesting area is defined by the area the herons actually use, as these birds do not defend a territory except
immediately around their individual nests. The boundaries of the colony are defined as much by social
attraction phenomenon and by habitat suitability. Consequently there is now immediately apparent
justification for buffering the mapped extent of a nesting area. Where the mapped extent of a colony was
available it was used. Where the mapped extent was not available the default seconds precision circle was
used around the recorded nesting location point.
ENSP reviewed the literature regarding commuting distance for colonial nesting long-legged wading birds
which fairly consistently indicates that the importance of suitable foraging habitat decreases with the distance
from the nesting area (e.g. Dowd and Flake 1985, Custer et al. 2004, Kelly et al 1993, Thompson 1978). This
is not surprising considering the energy demands of long commutes and the fact that, all other things being
equal, if suitable foraging habitat is randomly distributed within the possible foraging range, simple geometry
would argue that availability would increase with the square of the distance from the colony. Consequently, a
particular type of wetland or riparian habitat is more critical if it is located close to a nesting area than a
similar area located near the edge of the energetically feasible foraging range from the colony. It would
therefore be unjustifiable to use the maximum foraging distance figures to define all potential foraging
habitat as critical foraging habitat for a particular nesting colony. Conversely, using an average foraging
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4984 Breeding Nesting Colony 71.25
Meter
Buffer
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
4985 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
4986 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4987 Breeding Foraging 6 mile
radii of
open
water/emer
gent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4988 Breeding Roosting Area 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4989 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
distance figure may under-include suitable habitat by omitting some foraging areas that are important because
they provide particularly rich and easily exploited feeding habitat. Further, research (Custer et al. 2004)
indicates that longer commuting distances are more frequent during high-demand and demographically
critical nestling rearing period. Where the literature on commuting distance includes several studies, there can
be wide variability in the mean commuting distances between different studies. When such was the case, we
either averaged the reported mean commuting distances or used the information from the study with a large
sample size or from an area most ecologically similar to New Jersey. We then doubled this figure.
Black-crowned night heron foraging flight distances in South China differed between high and low tides. At
high tide, the average flight was 0.47 km, with a range of 0.03-1.10 km. At low tide, the average flight was
0.57 km, with a range of .03-1.38 km (Wong 1999). The Birds of North America, however, cites foraging
flights of up to 24 km (Davis 1993). NatureServe sets a minimum inferred extent of 3 km for black-crowned
night herons (NatureServe 2006). Since there is very little information available for this species, we apply a
conservative 9.6 km radius occurrence area to nesting colony foraging areas.
Literature:
Custer, C.M., S.A. Suarez, D.A. Olsen. 2004. Feeding habitat characteristics of the Great Blue
Heron and Great Egret nesting along the Upper Mississippi River, 1995-1998. Waterbirds
27(4): 454-68.
The majority of the herons in this study fed <5 km from the nesting site, and avoided areas > 10 km
away. They flew farther to sites during the brood-rearing period than during incubation. Only 10%
of the feeding flights ended at a location where another heron was present, indicating that they
prefer to feed alone.
Davis, W.E.Jr. 1993. Black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) In The Birds of
North America No. 74 (A. Poole and F. Gill, Eds.). Philadelphia: The Academy of Natural
Sciences; Washington, D.C.: The American Ornithologists’ Union.
Foraging commuting distance can be up to 24 km.
Dowd and Flake. 1985. Foraging habits and movements of nesting Great Blue Heron in
prairie river ecosystem, South Dakota. Journal of Field ornithology 56: 377-87.
A study in South Dakota found that the average distance that great blues flew from their colony to a
foraging site was 3.1 km, and the maximum observed distance was 24.4 km. Eighty-five percent of
the herons in the study fed within 4 km of the colony.
Kelly J. P., H. M. Pratt, P. L. Greene. 1993. The distribution, reproductive success, and
habitat characteristics of heron and egret breeding colonies in the San Francisco Bay area.
Colonial Waterbirds. 16:18–27.
> 95% of great blue herons and >90% great egrets fed within 20 km of their colony.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
The inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when the actual extent is unknown) in 3 km. This is
based on a low mean foraging range size.
Thompson. 1978. Feeding areas of Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets nesting in the
floodplain of the upper Mississippi River. Proc. Colonial Waterbird Group. 2: 202-13.
In central Minnesota the average distance that the herons flew from the colony to a foraging area
was 6.5 km, and the maximum observed was 20.4 km. Fifty-three percent of the herons in the study
fed within 4 km of the colony.
Wong. 1999. Foraging flights of nesting egrets and herons at Hong Kong Egretry, South
China. Waterbirds 22(3): 424-434.
In South China, foraging flight distances differed between high and low tides. At high tide, the
average flight was 0.47 km, with a range of 0.03-1.10 km. At low tide, the average flight was 0.57
km, with a range of .03-1.38 km.
Date researched: 7/1/2006
Last researched by: Davis
Dendroica caerulescens
Black-throated Blue Warbler
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 1 - 4 ha and young can move 200-300 meters from the nest within 2 weeks of
fledging. Based upon the upper limit territory size and to incorporate post-fledging habitat, an occurrence
area of 250 meters was chosen. Black-throated blue warblers are not state listed during non-breeding, so it
will not be included in the Landscape Project and the default buffer was chosen.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5224 Breeding Breeding Sighting 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5225 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5227 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Holmes, R.T., N. L. Rodenhouse and T. S. Sillett. (2005). Black-throated Blue Warbler
(Dendroica caerulescens). The Birds of North America Online (A. Poole, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell
Laboratory of Ornithology; Retrieved from The Birds of North American Online database:
http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/BNA/account/Black-throated_Blue_Warbler/
Breeds mainly in large, continuous tracts of undisturbed deciduous or mixed deciduous/coniferous
forests usually dominated by maples, birches, beech, and other northern hardwoods, with varying
amounts of eastern hemlock, spruce, and fir. It can sometimes also be found, especially during the
fledgling period, in dense patches of regenerating aspen, spruce, or in red pine plantations with a
dense, deciduous sapling understory. Forests most suitable as breeding habitat contain a relatively
thick undergrowth of dense, usually deciduous or broad-leaved evergreen shrubs. The species
occurs where there is thick undergrowth of mountain laurel, rhododendron, creeping yew, deciduous
bushes, small saplings, or tiny conifers. Where shade-tolerant understory shrub species are typically
rare, or have been removed by white-tailed deer, this species tends to respond positively to low-
intensity harvest (e.g., selection cutting) of closed-canopy forest, which opens the forest canopy and
promotes dense patches of seedlings and saplings. Selection of habitats with a dense shrub layer
seems most closely related to nesting requirements and not to foraging needs or other factors. Does
not usually occur commonly in young clear-cuts or second growth, but becomes frequent once
canopy becomes well developed and gaps allow the development of shrubs, usually > 50 yr
following clear-cutting. Appears to be about equally common in both managed and unmanaged
northern hardwoods forests. Densities not significantly affected by selective logging activities as
long as there is a dense or patchily dense shrub layer and relatively complete canopy cover.
Territory size ranges from about 1 to 4 ha, depending on habitat, being smallest where the shrub
layer is dense and heterogeneous. Young can move 200-300 meters from nest during the 1st 2
weeks after fledging.
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Dendroica virens
Black-throated Green Warbler
Justification:
Little is known about the territory size of BTNW, but it does depend on the type of habitat. Because the
favored spruce habitat is not common in New Jersey, the territory size will likely be larger than territories in
favored habitat (0.25 ha). Thus, the upper range of listed territory sizes was chosen to create the breeding
occurrence area. Non-breeding black-throated green warblers are listed as stable in New Jersey so no
occurrence area was specified.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5229 Breeding Breeding Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5230 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5233 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
Morse, D. H. and A. F. Poole (2005). Black-throated Green Warbler (Dendroica virens). The
Birds of North America Online (A. Poole, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology.
Habitat consists of boreal coniferous forests and transition areas between coniferous and deciduous
forests - prefers coniferous forests but can inhabit mixed and deciduous forests, often associated
with hemlock forests.
Little data on territory size. Territory size depends on habitat - smaller territories occur in favored
habitat of coniferous forest compared to less favored mixed forests. Smallest territory in favored
habitat is 0.25 ha. Ontario territories ranged from 0.3 - 0.9 ha.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Vireo solitarius
Blue-headed Vireo (Solitary Vireo)
Justification:
The breeding occurrence area was chosen based upon a territory size of 3 ha. Non-breeding individuals are
listed as stable in NJ so the default occurrence area was chosen and will not be included in the Landscape
Project.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5617 Breeding Breeding Sighting 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5618 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5620 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
James, R. D. 1998. Blue-headed Vireo (Vireo solitarius). In The Birds of North America, No.
379 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Typically breeds in evergreen forests with spruce, fir, hemlock, and pine, or conifers with associated
deciduous growth that may be alder and willow shrubs as understory, or include poplar, birch,
and/or maple trees in varying numbers. In highlands of e. U.S., usually above 300 m elevation in
North and 600-1,000 m in South, extending as high as forest is available to >2,000 m in some areas
Here an even broader habitat tolerance is seen, from pure hardwood forest of beech, maple, oak,
hickory, etc., on dry sites, through mixed mesophytic forest, pure pine or hemlock stands, to fir and
spruce on mountaintops. Presence corresponds closely with areas where extensive forest
predominates, but given that requirement, may be found almost anywhere with trees that are middle-
aged to mature, with high percent canopy closure (usually >75%), and where there is some (but not
dense) understory of shrubs and saplings, often near small openings or edges of wetlands and lakes.
After mating, most activity occurs within 100 m of nest (about 3-ha area). Unmated males can
travel 0.5 km from territory.
Fledged young usually stay within 1 km of nest through late summer.
Klaus, N. A., D. A. Buehler, and A. M. Saxton. 2005. Forest Management alternatives and
songbird breeding habitat on the Chrokee National Forest, Tennessee.
Assuming an average breeding density of 8.6 breeding pairs/40 ha (Hamel 1992), 3,596 pairs of
blue-headed vireos could be supported under the expected harvest regime by 2053.
Date researched: 9/29/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Dolichonyx oryzivorus
Bobolink
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 0.45 – 2.5 ha (Dechant et al. 1999, Martin and Gavin 1995), but the closest
study in NY had average territories of 0.5 ha (Dechant et al. 1999). The breeding occurrence area was chosen
based upon the NY average of 0.5 ha and increased because the home range size encompasses several
territories and the increase of home range due to movement of post-fledging chicks (Martin and Gavin 1995).
Little is known about migratory stopover habitat use so the migrant occurrence area chosen is the default.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4757 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
200 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4759 Breeding Breeding Sighting 200 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4761 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Dechant, J. A., M. L. Sondreal, D. H. Johnson, L. D. Igl, A. L. Zimmerman, and B. R. Euliss.
1999 (revised 2001). Effects of management practice on grassland birds: Bobolink. Northern
Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. 24 pages.
Territories did not vary much with location. Wisconsin mixed hayland floodplain territories ranged
from 0.45 - 0.69 ha where dry pasture territories were 2.5 ha, New York hayfields contained
territories of 0.5 ha, tame hayfields in Michigan had territories of 1.4 ha. Illinois minimum area for
tallgrass prairie was 10-30 ha. Nebraska minimum area for wet meadows was 46 ha and perimeter-
area ratio of 0.010.
Martin, S. G. and T. A. Gavin. 1995. Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryziorus. In The Birds of North
America, No. 176 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia,
PA.
Territories vary according to the density of bobolinks and type of habitat. In Wisconsin territories
ranged from 0.7 - 2 ha. Mean territory size in New York was 0.49 ha, Oregon was 0.74 - 1.45 ha.
Courtship occurs within 40 m of nest. Gathering nesting materials occurs within 80 m of nest.
Fledglings can move up to 70 m the first day out of nest.
During breeding season, home ranges of males and females encompass area of several male
territories (TAG), an area of use that becomes larger when nestlings fledge.
Mixed-sex and -age flocks begin forming in late June. In some locations flocks leave nesting hay
fields and meadows by late July; in others, flocks remain until mid-Aug. Birds then seek shelter of
freshwater marshes and coastal areas to complete Prebasic molt before migration. This species has
not been studied intensively outside the breeding season, habitat use during Aug-Sep is probably the
least-known period of its annual cycle
Mitchell, L. R., C. R. Smith and R. A. Malecki, R. A. 2000. Ecology of grassland breeding
birds in the northeastern US - a literature review with recommendations for management.
USGS, BRD, NY Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, DNR, Cornell University,
Ithaca, NY 14853-3011. September 2000.
Maine had 40% incidence at 500 ha, but not in optimal habitat for bobolink (see Vickery et al.
below). New York’s minimum area was 16 ha with a mean of 56.6 ha. Another study in NY had
96% incidence at 10-20 ha, 68% incidence at 5-10 ha, and 18% incidence at 3-6 ha. Illinois had
50% incidence at 50 ha and a minimum area of 10-30 ha.
Vickery, P. D., M. L. Hunter, Jr. and S. M. Melvin. 1994. Effects of habitat area on the
distribution of grassland birds in Maine. Conservation Biology 8(4): 1087-1097.
Bobolinks have positive area effects but had low incidence because sites did not have enough
graminoid cover to be a preferred site.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Buteo platypterus
Broad-winged Hawk
Justification:
This species has small breeding territories but are area sensitive. The buffer was chosen based on breeding
territory size and increased for the species’ mobility and need for large patches. Until more is discovered
about the mobility of the species, a 100 meter radius buffer will be used.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5264 Breeding Nest 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5265 Breeding Breeding Sighting 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5267 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
Goodrich, L. J., S. C. Crocoll, and S. E. Senner. 1996. Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo
platypterus). In The Birds of North America, No. 218 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The
Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, and The American Ornithologists’ Union,
Washington, D.C.
N/A
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Clark
Toxostoma rufum
Brown Thrasher
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 0.5 - 1.13 ha, but fledglings can move a median 200 meters (up to 800 meters)
from the nest within a few weeks of fledgling. Therefore, the breeding occurrence area was chosen to
incorporate a territory and the median post-fledging habitat. Non-breeding individuals are listed as stable in
NJ so the default occurrence area was chosen and will not be included in the Landscape Project.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5275 N/A Breeding Sighting 200 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5277 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5278 N/A Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
200 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Cavitt, J. F., and C. A. Haas. 2000. Brown Thrasher (Toxostoma rufum). In The Birds of
North America, No. 557 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc.,
Philadelphia, PA.
Breeds in dry, open country along coastal plain of Long I., NY, especially in thickets and scrubby
fields; in w. New York, prefers brushy hillsides covered with hawthorn. In New Jersey pine barrens,
breeds at high densities in regularly burned habitat dominated by pitch pine and scrub oaks and
black jack oak but absent or rare in areas where fire suppression allows canopy oaks or white oaks.
Not found breeding in New Jersey woodlots <0.8 ha in size and rare in woodlots of <4 ha. In
Georgia, found in thickets and underbrush at edge of cotton fields in the Piedmont and Okefenokee
Swamp. Only occasionally breeds in urban settings, including yards, gardens, and fencerows.
Although uses a wide variety of habitats, reaches highest densities in shrub or midsuccessional
stages of forests. Habitat suitability index model included 3 variables; suitability peaked when
density of woody stems ≥1.0 m tall was 10,000-30,000/ha, percentage of canopy cover of trees was
10-30%, and percentage of ground surface covered by litter ≥1 cm deep was >80%. Breeding-
territory size varied from 0.5 to >1.0 ha even within limited area, probably depending on habitat
quality; in some cases, pairs nested within 15 m of each other. In IL, average breeding territory size
varied from 0.65 to 1.13 ha over a 3-yr period. Most activities (including construction of up to 4
nests) of a pair seem to be confined to territories. In N. Dakota, young moved a median distance of
only 200 m from nest in 6 wk. One fledgling moved 0.8 km within 12 d.
During migration, observed in hedgerows and railroad rights-of-way during fall migration in
Illinois. Occasionally observed in chaparral in San Patricio Co., TX, during migration, but did not
defend winter territories in this habitat. Found in mature deciduous forests, urban gardens, yards,
and parks, particularly those with fruit-bearing plants and feeders.
During the winter, abundant in riparian woodlands and absent from chaparral in San Patricio Co.,
TX. Foraged at sites with well-developed overstories and only rarely in open areas without canopy
cover. Occurs in thickets and brushy woodland edges, often in yaupon holly thickets, in Texas in
both winter and summer. Also frequents fencerows, gardens, yards, and cultivated areas. Occurs in
riparian forest, oak woodland, and mesquite chaparral within Texas Coastal Bend. In Mississippi,
found within vine-covered thickets, brier patches, and hedgerows. In Illinois, typically found in
sheltered areas with heavy brush and often near feeders. Maintains winter territories in Texas by
chasing and calling. Returns to same winter territory from one year to next.
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Wilsonia canadensis
Canada Warbler
Justification:
Little data are available on territory size. The mean of the territories provided was 0.66 ha, but it was noted
that Canada warblers feed fledglings 60 - 90m away (Conway 1999) and 100 m buffer from wetland edge is
adequate for a Canada warbler territory (Lambert and Faccio 2005), so the breeding occurrence area chosen
was 100 meters. Non-breeding individuals are listed as stable in NJ so the default occurrence area was
chosen and will not be included in the Landscape Project.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5281 Breeding Breeding Sighting 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5283 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5284 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
Conway, C. J. 1999. Canada Warbler (Wilsonia canadensis). In The Birds of North America,
No. 421 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Wide range of deciduous and coniferous forests. Most abundant in moist, mixed coniferous-
deciduous forests with a well-developed understory. Often near open water. At lower elevations,
often restricted to cool, wet, low-lying areas: cedar (Cupressaceae) woods, swampy forests,
sphagnum (Sphagnum spp.) bogs, moist forest clearings and woodland edges, spruce (Picea
spp.)tamarack (Larix laricina) bogs, aspen (Populus spp.) and moist spruce-birch (Betula spp.)
forests, and alder (Alnus rugosa) and willow (Salix spp.) stands along stream banks. Less common
in shrub wetlands.
In Ontario, average territory size 0.2 ha in Algonquin Provincial Park; one territory in Québec 0.4.
Two paired males apparently defended areas of 0.8 and 1.2 ha in New York. Two pairs feeding
newly fledged young just out of nest only 60-90 m apart. Three pairs nesting <30 m away from each
other along stream in West Virginia and 5 nests found along 46 m of stream in Vermont (Cornell
Nest Records Program [CNRP]). Size of singing area for 1 male in New York State was 0.24 ha, but
he ranged over a 0.8 ha area (1.2 ha for another male) after nesting began.
Lambert, D. J. and S. D. Faccio. 2005. Canada warbler population status, habitat use, and
stewardship guidelines for northeastern forests. Vermont Institute of Natural Science,
Woodstock, VT.
Inhabits lowland and upland habitats, including swamps, streamside thickets, brushy ravines, moist
forests, and regenerating timber cuts with well-developed shrub layer and structurally complex
forest floor. They are area sensitive in "settled" areas but not in forest-dominated regions. In Rhode
Island, the greatest incidence occurred in swamps > 6 ha and where forest covered 50% of
landscape within 2km. "A 100-m distance from shoreline or wetland edge is adequate to encompass
a typical Canada warbler territory."
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Hydroprogne caspia
Caspian Tern
Justification:
In New Jersey, Caspian terns nest primarily in the coastal salt marshes, building nests on wrack mats
(Cuthbert and Wires 1999). They are primarily piscivores and relay on water bodies (bays, estuaries and
ocean) as their foraging habitat (Cuthbert and Wires 1999). Distances commuted for foraging flights are not
well understood, but there is some data to draw from and it is likely they participate in long foraging flights.
In northern Lake Michigan, individuals (that were marked) were observed up to 50 km from their breeding
colony (Cuthbert and Wires 1999). On the Pacific coast, adults were observed up to 62 km from their
breeding colony (Gill 1976). Fifty (50%) of adults at a colony located on the Columbia River foraged within
8 km of their breeding site and 90% foraged within 21 km (Collis, et al 1999). Adults fitted with transmitters
were documented foraging a minimum of 2.5 km offshore (Sirdevan and Quinn 1977). Another study on the
Columbia River, in Oregon, found that radio tagged birds foraged, on average, between 14-29 km from the
colony (Anderson et al. 2007). A third study on the Columbia River found that radio tagged terns foraged, a
median of 7.7 km - 16.9km (depending on colony and timing of breeding cycle) (Lyons et al. 2005).
NatureServe does not make any recommendations for inferred extents, but does recommend a 5km separation
distance between breeding colonies. Since there are no New Jersey specific studies for this species (which
breeds in small numbers in the state), we took into consideration studies for other locales and applied a 6.5
mile radius around the colony to protect likely foraging habitat.
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5292 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5293 Breeding Foraging 6.5 mile
radii of
open
water/emer
gent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5294 Breeding Nesting Colony 50 meter
radii
around
nest/colon
y
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
5295 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5296 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
5297 Breeding Suspected Breeding
Location
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
Literature:
Anderson, S.K., D.D. Roby, D.E. Lyons, K. Collis. 2007. Relationship of Caspian tern foraging
ecology to nesting success in the Columbia River estuary, Oregon, USA. Estuarine, Coastal
and Shelf Science 73: 447-456.
This study reports the same results as the 2005 study (see Lyons, et al. below) but makes focuses on
the idea that there are differences in commuting distances not just between discrete colonies but
also among each colony on a yearly basis. For example, on East Sand Island, adults foraged during
the chick rearing season an average of 20.2 km from the colony in 2000 (n=19) but only 13. 9 km
in 2001 (n= 33). They hypothesize that these differences were likely the result of site conditions
(such a drought) and availability of prey items.
Collis, K., S. Adamany, D. D. Roby, D. P. Craig, and D. E. Lyons. 1999. Avian predation on
juvenile salmonids on the lower Columbia River. 1998 draft annual report submitted to
Bonneville Power Administration and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Second Version,
October 1999.
Fifty (50%) of adults at a colony located on the Columbia River foraged within 8 km of their
breeding site and 90% foraged within 21 km, showing a great variety in the distances traveled by
this species to forage.
Cuthbert, Francesca J. and Linda R. Wires. 1999. Caspian Tern (Sterna caspia), The Birds of
North America Online (A. Poole, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology; Retrieved 31
March 2011 from the Birds of North America Online:
http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna/species/403doi:10.2173/bna.403
The BNA account gives information on all aspects of the natural life history of these species
including locations of nesting and foraging habitat. The lead author also reported in a study she was
incvolved with in Lake Michigan where marked birds were observed foraging up to 50 km from
their breeding colony.
Gill Jr., R.E. 1976. Notes on the foraging of nesting Caspian Terns Hydroprogne caspia
(Pallas). California Fish and Game 62: 155.
The author observed Caspian terns on the Pacific coast foraging up to 62 km from their breeding
colony.
Lyons D.E., D.D. Roby, K. Collis. 2005. Foraging Ecology of Caspian Terns in the Columbia
River Estuary, USA. Waterbirds 28(3): 280-291.
Two islands (Rice Island and East Sand Island) hosting Caspian tern colonies were studied to
determine how foraging patterns affect nest success. The researchers found difference in foraging
commute by colony and by timing during breeding cycle. Rice Island adults traveled a median of
12.3 km during early chick rearing and 16.9 km during late chick rearing while East Sand Island
adults traveled 9.6 km during early chick rearing and 7.7 km during late chick rearing. This lead the
authors to conclude that foraging distances are at least partially based on available habitat proximate
to the colony.
NatureServe. 2010. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].
Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 31, 2011 ).
NatureServe recommends a 5 km separation distance from breeding occurrences. In its justification,
it notes that this is certainly not large enough to compensate for the distances that foraging birds are
likely to travel and that this number should be used for colony separations only. They chose this
number to try and strike a balance between the high mobility of these birds and the practical
considerations of conservation and management.
Sirdevan, J. E. and J. S. Quinn. 1997. Foraging patterns of Caspian Terns determined using
radio-telemetry. Waterbirds 20: 429-435.
This study took place in two Lake Ontario colonies, Hamilton Harbor and Gull Island, and showed
that the birds exhibit a great variety and unpredictability in foraging patterns.
Date researched: 3/31/2011
Last researched by: Davis
Bubulcus ibis
Cattle Egret
Justification:
Nesting area is defined by the area the birds actually use, as these birds do not defend a territory except
immediately around their individual nests. The boundaries of the colony are defined as much by social
attraction phenomenon and by habitat suitability. Consequently there is now immediately apparent
justification for buffering the mapped extent of a nesting area. Where the mapped extent of a colony was
available it was used.
ENSP reviewed the literature regarding commuting distance for colonial nesting long-legged wading birds
which fairly consistently indicates that the importance of suitable foraging habitat decreases with the distance
from the nesting area (e.g. Dowd and Flake 1985, Custer et al. 2004, Kelly et al 1993, Thompson 1978). This
is not surprising considering the energy demands of long commutes and the fact that, all other things being
equal, if suitable foraging habitat is randomly distributed within the possible foraging range, simple geometry
would argue that availability would increase with the square of the distance from the colony. Consequently, a
particular type of wetland or riparian habitat is more critical if it is located close to a nesting area than a
similar area located near the edge of the energetically feasible foraging range from the colony. It would
therefore be unjustifiable to use the maximum foraging distance figures to define all potential foraging
habitat as critical foraging habitat for a particular nesting colony. Conversely, using an average foraging
distance figure may under-include suitable habitat by omitting some foraging areas that are important because
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5298 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5299 Breeding Nesting Colony 90 meter
radii
around
colony
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
5300 Breeding Roosting Area 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5301 Breeding Foraging 7.0 mile
radii of
open
water/emer
gent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5302 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
5303 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
they provide particularly rich and easily exploited feeding habitat. Further, research (Custer et al. 2004)
indicates that longer commuting distances are more frequent during high-demand and demographically
critical nestling rearing period. Where the literature on commuting distance includes several studies, there can
be wide variability in the mean commuting distances between different studies. When such was the case, we
either averaged the reported mean commuting distances or used the information from the study with a large
sample size or from an area most ecologically similar to New Jersey. We then doubled this figure.
This species is has a wider range of diet items than other herons and egrets nesting in New Jersey. Along with
small fish, they will also eat grasshoppers, crickets, spiders, flies, frogs, noctuid moths and small mammals
(Telfair 2006). Therefore when looking at the areas to be valued by this model, special attention should be
paid to the marsh islands or inland areas that lie within the radius of the nesting colony, as well as the open
water that other egret models value.
The worldwide range of this species is quite expansive, including parts of all continents except Antarctica
(Telfair 2006). Due to this, there have been many studies conducted on this species and reported commuting
distances are wide ranging. In North Carolina, cattle egrets traveled from 4-6 km to foraging sites from their
nesting colonies (Custer and Osborn 1978). In Barbados, cattle egrets were observed foraging up to 5.7 km
from breeding colonies (Krebs et al 1994). In southeastern Australia, 60% of cattle egrets fed within 6.5 km
of the breeding colony (Richardson and Taylor 2003). In central Minnesota the average distance that the
herons flew from the colony to a foraging area was 6.5 km (maximum distance 20.4 km) and 53% of the
herons in the study fed within 4 km of the colony (Thompson 1978). In Texas, foraging flights ranged from 4-
25 km, with 67% of those flights from 10-15 km (Mora and Miller 1998). In Baja, California, cattle egrets
flew 2.5 - 35 km to foraging sites, most (80%) within 15 km of the breeding colony and 46% from 10-12.5
km (Mora 1997). In Alabama, cattle egrets traveled from 26-32 km from their breeding colonies to foraging
sites (Bateman 1970). The breeding inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown)
is 3 km which is based on a low mean foraging range size for this group (NatureServe 2007).
Literature:
Bateman, D.L. 1970. Movement-behavior in three species of colonial nesting wading birds: a
radio-telemetric study. Ph.D. dissertation, Auburn University, Auburn, AL.
In Alabama, cattle egrets traveled from 26-32 km from their breeding colonies to foraging sites.
Custer, C.M., S.A. Suarez, D.A. Olsen. 2004. Feeding habitat characteristics of the Great Blue
Heron and Great Egret nesting along the Upper Mississippi River, 1995-1998. Waterbirds
27(4): 454-68.
The majority of the herons in this study fed <5 km from the nesting site, and avoided areas > 10 km
away. They flew farther to sites during the brood-rearing period than during incubation. Only 10%
of the feeding flights ended at a location where another heron was present, indicating that they
prefer to feed alone.
Custer, T.W., R. G. Osborn. 1978. Feeding habitat use by colonially-breeding herons, egrets,
and ibises in North Carolina. Auk 95: 733-743.
In North Carolina, cattle egrets traveled from 4-6 km to foraging sites from their nesting colonies.
Dowd and Flake. 1985. Foraging habits and movements of nesting Great Blue Heron in
prairie river ecosystem, South Dakota. Journal of Field ornithology 56: 377-87.
A study in South Dakota found that the average distance that great blues flew from their colony to a
foraging site was 3.1 km, and the maximum observed distance was 24.4 km. Eighty-five percent of
the herons in the study fed within 4 km of the colony.
Kelly J. P., H. M. Pratt, P. L. Greene. 1993. The distribution, reproductive success, and
habitat characteristics of heron and egret breeding colonies in the San Francisco Bay area.
Colonial Waterbirds. 16:18-27.
> 95% of great blue herons and >90% great egrets fed within 20 km of their colony.
Krebs, E.A., D. Riven-Ramsey, W. Hunte 1994. The colonization of Barbados by Cattle Egrets
(Bubulcus ibis) 1956-1990. Colon. Waterbirds 17: 86-90.
In Barbados, cattle egrets were observed foraging up to 5.7 km from breeding colonies.
Mora, M.A. 1997. Feeding flights of Cattle Egrets nesting in an agricultural ecosystem.
Southwest Naturalist 42: 52-58.
In Baja, California, cattle egrets flew 2.5 - 35 km to foraging sites, most (80%) within 15 km of the
breeding colony. Forty-six percent flew from 10-12.5 km.
Mora, M.A., J. M. Miller 1998. Foraging flights, reproductive success and organochlorine
contaminants in Cattle Egrets nesting in a residential area in Bryan, Texas. Texas Journal of
Science 50: 205-214.
In Texas, foraging flights ranged from 4-25 km, with 67% of those flights falling from 10-15 km.
NatureServe. 2007. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].
Version 6.2. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: August 2, 2007 ).
The breeding inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 3 km. For
the breeding season, this figure is based on a low mean foraging range size for this group.
Richardson, A.J., I. R. Taylor 2003. Are rice fields in southeastern Australia an adequate
substitute for natural wetlands as foraging areas for egrets? Waterbirds 26: 353-363.
In southeastern Australia, 60% of cattle egrets fed within 6.5 km of the breeding colony.
Telfair, R. C. II. 2006. Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis). The Birds of North America Online (A.
Poole, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology; Retrieved from The Birds of North
American Online database: http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/BNA/account/Cattle_Egret/.
This species is has a larger range of diet items than other herons and egrets nesting in New Jersey.
Along with small fish, they will also eat grasshoppers, crickets, spiders, flies, frogs, noctuid moths,
and some small mammals.
Thompson. 1978. Feeding areas of Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets nesting in the
floodplain of the upper Mississippi River. Proc. Colonial Waterbird Group. 2: 202-13.
In central Minnesota the average distance that the herons flew from the colony to a foraging area
was 6.5 km, and the maximum observed was 20.4 km. Fifty-three percent of the herons in the study
fed within 4 km of the colony.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davis
Dendroica cerulea
Cerulean Warbler
Justification:
The breeding occurrence area distance was chosen based upon the upper confident limit of the mean territory
size (1.04 ha ± 0.16 SE), which calculates to 1.35 ha. Little is known about non-breeding territories, but
based on the area-sensitivity of the species, the breeding occurrence area distance was chosen.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5304 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
65 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5306 Breeding Breeding Sighting 65 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5307 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 65 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Hamel, P. B. 2000. Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica cerulean). In The Birds of North America,
No. 511 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Routinely identified with predominantly forested landscapes, mature forest, large and tall trees of
broad-leaved, deciduous species with an open understory; in wet bottomlands, or upland situations
including mesic slopes, and mountains, from <30 to >1,000 m elevation. Expanding populations in
northeastern North America now occupy landscapes formerly cleared for agriculture. Thus, species
will occupy second-growth as well as mature forest. Minimum habitat requirements of this species
along the Roanoke River in N. Carolina: (1) a closed canopy; (2) presence of scattered, very tall, old-
growth canopy trees; (3) distinct zonation of canopy, subcanopy, shrub, and ground-cover layers. In
Missouri breeding habitats, canopy cover averaged 85%, minimum value 65%.
Usually considered an area-sensitive species. Minimum forest-tract size varies, e.g. from 20-30 ha
in Ohio to 700 ha in the Middle Atlantic states and 1,600 ha in Mississippi Alluvial Valley of
Tennessee. Mueller et al. (1999) suggest tracts >8,000 ha may be required to support stable breeding
populations in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. In Ontario, however, found breeding in tracts as
small as 10 ha (J. Jones pers. comm.). Species response to habitat fragmentation may reflect factors
that covary with fragment size, such as intensity of Brown-headed Cowbird (Molothrus ater)
parasitism and of predation, rather than particular behavioral aversion to small fragment size or to
edges.
Mean breeding territory size of 1.04 ha ± 0.16 SE based on 18 Ontario territories that ranged in size
from 0.38 to 2.4 ha. Maximum breeding densities on published Breeding Bird Censuses suggest that
territories smaller than these are possible.
Rosenberg, K. V., R. W. Rohrbaugh, Jr., S. E. Barker, J. D. Lowe, R. S. Hames, and A. A.
Dhondt. 1999. A land manager’s guide to improving habitat for scarlet tanagers and other
forest-interior birds. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Cerulean warblers share some habitat characteristics with Scarlet Tanagers. In the Piedmont Plains
and Delaware Bay regions, they prefer areas at least 70% forested, deciduous or mixed, and the
suitability increases with proximity of forest patches to larger, contiguous forest patches. In the
Highlands, they prefer areas at least 50% forest, deciduous, and mixed and occasionally coniferous,
and the suitability increases with proximity of forest patches to larger, contiguous forest patches.
Date researched: 7/1/2006
Last researched by: Petzinger
Petrochelidon pyrrhonota
Cliff Swallow
Justification:
This species is not territorial but highly mobile, particularly for foraging and fledgling dispersal (Brown and
Brown 1995). In New Jersey, most large colonies occur on the undersides of bridges over the Delaware
River. The breeding buffer was based on the foraging distance that most cliff swallows travel (Brown and
Brown 2002). The non-breeding population is listed as stable in New Jersey, so the default buffer was chosen
and will not be used in the Landscape Project
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5322 Breeding Breeding Sighting 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5324 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5326 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
Brown, Charles R. and Mary B. Brown. 1995. Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota), The
Birds of North America Online (A. Poole, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology; Retrieved
from the Birds of North America Online: http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna/species/149.
Most colony sites are located near open fields or pastures where the birds forage, and a water source
is often nearby. Proximity to mud source (for nest-building) is often cited as a breeding-habitat
requirement (Emlen 1941, 1952), although some colonies are located several kilometers from the
nearest mud supply (Coffey 1980, CRB, MBB).
Juveniles travel up to 2-3 km from their natal colony to a creche site as soon as they fledge (CRB,
MBB). Birds from different colonies may mix in the same creche, with membership changing daily
as more young fledge and others become independent and leave. Birds often creche at the same
physical location throughout a season or until all young from the local colonies have
fledged.Wintering individuals can forage up to 20 km from roost site.
Some birds move relatively long distances between colonies within a season: up to 40 km in
California and 64 km in Nebraska. Adults, like juveniles, spend up to a week or more in mid- to late
summer visiting multiple colony sites near their breeding colony of that year. Birds probably use
this time to assess suitability of sites (e.g., parasite load, food availability) and use that information
in part to choose colonies the next spring (Brown and Brown in press).While selecting colonies in
early spring, males and females generally ranged linear distances of 2-15 and 9-14 km, respectively,
along a Nebraska river valley where colony sites were located (Brown and Brown in press). Once a
bird selects a colony, most foraging is confined to areas within about a 1.5-km radius of the colony
site (Brown et al. 1992), although birds occasionally forage up to 6 km from their colony (Emlen
1952). Late in season, after young fledge, birds of all ages and sexes travel widely and visit colonies
up to 60 km (and probably farther) from their natal or breeding colonies (CRB, MBB). Two radio-
tagged postbreeding males confined their activities to a linear region of 15 and 19.5 km along a
river valley for at least 6-8 d (Brown and Brown in press). Within-season homing is well developed
over moderately long distances: adults in California were released at distances of 58, 68, 112, 136,
and 184 km from their nesting sites, and birds from each distance returned to their colonies
(Mayhew 1963).
Brown, Charles R. and Mary B. Brown. 2002. Does intercolony competition for food affect
colony choice in cliff swallows? The Condor, 104(1):117-128.
Past work has shown that virtually all foraging by colony residents occurs within a 1-km radius of a
colony site (except in bad weather, when foraging ranges increase), regardless of colony size or
habitat type.
Because previous observations had indicated that Cliff Swallows confine their foraging to within a l-
km radius of their colony site (Brown et al. 1992, Brown and Brown 1996), we designated the
foraging range for each colony as a 785-ha circle of diameter 2 km centered at the colony site. The
only occasions when the birds did not use this colony-centered foraging range was during cold or
windy weather when individuals from many colonies would concentrate in hundreds or thousands
over lakes or streams and forage on insects just above the water surface, or in canyons where the
walls served as windbreaks to concentrate insects. On these occasions birds would travel 3 km or
more from their colony sites and mix with birds from many colonies. Bad weather was infrequent
enough during most years that we disregarded it in designating foraging ranges. Using topographic
maps, we measured the linear distances between all colony sites. We defined any colony within 2
km of a given colony site as a neighboring colony with an overlapping foraging range. We scored
sites only as overlapping or not, and did not quantify the degree of overlap. However, for a subset of
colonies, we investigated whether the degree of overlap had any apparent effect; we did this by
comparing colonies that had overlapping neighbors situated at different linear distances within 2 km.
We found only weak evidence that Cliff Swallow colony size at a site might have been influenced
by competition for food from neighboring colonies. As predicted by the intercolony-competition
hypothesis, in some years there was a pattern of the largest colonies occurring in areas with limited
foraging-range overlap from other sites, and some of the smaller colonies were ones that overlapped
with neighboring sites containing many nests. Furthermore, annual variability in colony size seemed
to increase as a site shared its foraging range with more neighbors. However, the statistical patterns
across all analyses were weak, the among-year analyses within sites showed almost no evidence that
intercolony competition influenced settlement decisions, and there were many small to medium-
sized colonies that shared their foraging range with other small to medium-sized colonies.
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Chordeiles minor
Common Nighthawk
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 4 - 34 ha depending on habitat. The breeding occurrence area was chosen
based upon the upper limit of the breeding territories (28 ha) for nesting habitat. Common nighthawks
migrate in flocks and are not territorial, but little information is available about stopover habitat use, so the
default occurrence area was chosen for migrant nighthawks.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5335 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5338 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5339 Breeding Breeding Sighting 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Poulin, R. G., S. D. Grindal, and R. M. Brigham. 1996. Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles
minor). In The Birds of North America, No. 213 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of
Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, and The American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C.
Nesting habitat includes coastal sand dunes and beaches, logged or slashburned areas of forest sites,
woodland clearings, prairies and plains, sagebrush and grassland habitat, farm fields, open forests,
rock outcrops, and flat gravel rooftops of city buildings. Nests in open areas on the ground in Texas,
extensively logged and burned areas in British Columbia, on bare sand and among small tufts of
grass in Louisiana, in cultivated fields or atop fence posts throughout its range, and in open native
grassland in s.-central Canada and n.-central U.S.. Prefers flat, gravel roofs in urban areas.
Generally selects large roofs with parapet, close to walls (<0.5 m), and not according to roof height.
Aluminum roofs avoided, and flat roofs not used in the Okanagan Valley, BC, where natural sites
are apparently preferred. Density of flat roofs is primary factor in selection of urban home ranges.
Nesting areas chosen secondarily in association with large trees for roosting and vegetation for the
production of flying insects for food. Average commuting distance from roost to feeding grounds is
2.7 km (SE ± 0.1, n = 284 trips). No evidence of roosting or nesting to minimize commuting
distance to feeding areas.
Strongly territorial - males seldom cross territorial boundaries. Around Saskatoon, SK, greatest
number of territories (n = 48) found within city limits, with greatest density downtown; 1
male/18.62 ha downtown, 1 male/33.6 ha in natural field.
Variable territory size in different habitats. In cities: in Saskatoon, SK, 10.53 ha; in Detroit, MI,
10.4 ha (range 4.14-22.8) for 13 territories defended by males. In natural habitat: 28.34 ha (field).
Home range size not correlated with measured environmental factors. Generally the same as
territory. Average home range 10.5 ha (urban), 10.4 ha (Detroit, MI), 28.34 ha (field).
Few data on migratory stopover habitat; farmlands, river valleys, marshes, coastal dunes (e.g., s.
New Jersey), open woodlands.
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Sterna hirundo
Common Tern
Justification:
In New Jersey, common terns nest in the coastal landscape on wrack mats on marsh islands and in the dunes
of barrier islands. They forage for small fish in the ocean or bay and their commuting distances are widely
reported in the literature. The birds of North America notes that across the breeding range, most breeding
birds feed within 20 km of colony-sites, often much less if numbers small and/or prey locally abundant.
(Nisbet 2002). On the Atlantic Coast they usually foraged within 1 km of shore. (Duffy 1986). At Lake
Ontario most terns flew either 0.9 km to a small pond (30% of trips) or 1-8 km to other foraging sites (Moore
1993). In another study the mean trip distance for foraging flights for common terns was 2.4-4.2 km, with a
maximum distance of 20 km (n = 99 males, >1,000 trips) (Moore 2001). Individuals from Bird Island,
Massachusetts were observed defending feeding territories up to 19 km away from nesting colonies. (Nisbet
1983). Another study at Bird Island fund that some terns made triangular feeding flights of at least 60 km,
including 15 km return flights with fish. (Heinemann 1992). Around Cape Cod, Massachusetts, terns fed in
tidal inlets or between islands but were also observed feeding up to 20 km offshore. (Trull et al. 1999). The
breeding inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 5 km (NatureServe 2007).
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5340 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5341 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
5342 Breeding Suspected Breeding
Location
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5343 Breeding Nesting Colony 50 meter
radii
around
nest/colon
y
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
5344 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5345 Breeding Foraging 7.5 mile
radii of
open
water/emer
gent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
Duffy, D.C. 1986. Foraging at patches: interactions between Common and Roseate Terns.
Ornis Scand. 17: 47-52.
On Atlantic Coast, the terns usually foraged within 1 km of shore.
Heinemann, D. 1992. Foraging ecology of Roseate Terns on Bird Island, Buzzards Bay,
Massachusetts. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Newton Corner, MA.
Some birds nesting at Bird Island, Massachusetts made triangular feeding flights of at least 60 km,
including 15 km return flights with fish.
Moore, D.J. 2001. The provisioning tactics of parent Common Terns (Sterna hirundo) in
relation to brood energy requirement. Ph.D. dissertation, Simon Fraser Univ., Burnaby,
British Columbia.
The mean trip distance for foraging flights for common terns was 2.4-4.2 km, with a maximum
distance of 20 km (n = 99 males, >1,000 trips).
Moore, D.J. 1993. Foraging ecology and parental care of Common Terns (Sterna hirundo)
nesting in Windermere Basin, Lake Ontario. M.S. thesis, Brock Univ., St. Catharines, Ontario.
At Lake Ontario most birds flew either 0.9 km to a small pond (30% of trips) or 1-8 km to other
foraging sites.
NatureServe. 2007. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].
Version 6.2. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: August 2, 2007 ).
The breeding inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 5 km.
Nisbet, I. C. T. 2002. Common Tern (Sterna hirundo). In The Birds of North America, No.
618 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Most breeding birds feed within 20 km of colony-sites, often much less if numbers small and/or
prey locally abundant.
Nisbet, I.C.T. 1983. Territorial feeding by Common Terns. Colonial Waterbirds 6: 64-70.
Some birds from Bird Island were observed defending feeding territories up to 19 km away from
nesting colonies.
Trull, P., S. Hecker, M. J. Watson, I. C. T. Nisbet 1999. Staging of Roseate Terns Sterna
dougallii in the post-breeding period around Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA. Atlantic
Seabirds 1: 145-158.
Around Cape Cod, Massachusetts, many terns fed in tidal inlets or between islands. They were
observed feeding up to 20 km offshore.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davis
Accipiter cooperii
Cooper's Hawk
Justification:
The home ranges of Cooper’s hawks’ are highly variable, both geographically and seasonally.
Only breeding records of Cooper’s hawks are used in the Landscape Project to value habitat. Home range
calculations reported in the literature for Cooper’s hawks during the breeding season range from 65.5 ha to
784 ha. The average being 348 ha, or an area equivalent to having a 1.1 km radius. The ENSP uses a 1.0 km
radius to represent the occurrence area boundary for all Cooper’s hawk breeding records used in the
Landscape Project. This represents a slightly conservative estimate of the breeding season home ranges of
Cooper’s hawks as reported in the literature.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4768 N/A Nest 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4770 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4773 N/A Breeding Sighting 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Craighead, F., and J. Craighead. 1956. Hawks, owls, and wildlife. Dover Publ. Inc., New York.
Average home range during the breeding season for four pairs of Cooper’s hawks was 1.43 sq
miles, 1.55 sq miles, 0.37 sq miles, and 1.45 sq miles. Using the conversion of 1 square mile equals
640.0 acres and 1 acre equals 0.4046856 hectares, the average home ranges were 370 ha, 401 ha, 96
ha, and 376 ha.
Mannan, R. W. and C. W. Boal. 2000. Home range characteristics of male Cooper’s hawks in
an urban environment. Wilson Bull. 112(1):21-27.
Average home range during breeding season was 65.5 ha, with a range of 13.3-130.6 ha.
Murphy, R.K., M.W. Gratson, and R.N. Rosenfield. 1988. Activity and habitat use by a
breeding male Cooper’s Hawk in a suburban area. J. Raptor Res. 22:97-100.
Average home range during breeding season was 784 ha.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Schantz
Sturnella magna
Eastern Meadowlark
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 1.2 - 6.1 ha (Hull 2000, Lanyon 1995) but commonly range from 2.8 - 3.2 ha
(Lanyon 1995). The breeding occurrence area is based upon the upper limit of territory sizes. Because little is
known about migratory stopover or wintering habitat use, the default occurrence area was chosen for the non-
breeding individuals.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5370 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5374 N/A Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
125 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5375 N/A Breeding Sighting 125 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Hull, S. D. 2000 (revised 2002). Effects of management practice on grassland birds: Eastern
Meadowlark. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. 35 pages.
Territories range from 1.2 - 4.8 ha and seem to prefer areas > 5 ha for breeding. Not affected by core
area (or lack thereof). Had 50% incidence at 5 ha. Wisconsin territories ranged from 1.2 - 6 ha with
an average of 2.3 ha. Oklahoma territories averaged 2 ha. In PA they were found in warm and cool-
season grasses and fields > 1.4 ha. Not considered area sensitive by studies in New York and
Missouri. 50% incidence at 5 ha. In Maine 40% incidence at 500 ha grassland barrens.
Lanyon, W. E. 1995. Eastern Meadowlark (Sturnella magna). In The Birds of North America,
No. 160 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, and
The American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C.
Territories in Wisconsin varied from 1.2 to 6.1 ha but commonly 2.8 - 3.2 ha. In New York, 15
territories averaged 2.8 ha. Wintering habitat consists of open country, including cultivated fields
and feedlots; also marshes. Northern limit of winter range correlated with temperature: absent from
regions having mean minimum winter temperature below -12°C.
Mitchell, L. R., C. R. Smith and R. A. Malecki, R. A. 2000. Ecology of grassland breeding
birds in the northeastern US - a literature review with recommendations for management.
USGS, BRD, NY Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, DNR, Cornell University,
Ithaca, NY 14853-3011. September 2000.
Meadowlarks tend to use areas > 20 ha.
Vickery, P. D., M. L. Hunter, Jr. and S. M. Melvin. 1994. Effects of habitat area on the
distribution of grassland birds in Maine. Conservation Biology 8(4): 1087-1097.
Meadowlarks have positive area effects but had low incidence because sites did not have enough
graminoid cover to be a preferred site.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Plegadis falcinellus
Glossy Ibis
Justification:
Nesting colony is defined by the area the birds actually use, as these birds do not defend a territory except
immediately around their individual nests. The boundaries of the colony are defined as much by social
attraction phenomenon and by habitat suitability. Consequently there is now immediately apparent
justification for buffering the mapped extent of a nesting area. Where the mapped extent of a colony was
available it was used. Where the mapped extent was not available the default seconds precision circle was
used around the recorded nesting location point.
ENSP reviewed the literature regarding commuting distance for colonial nesting long-legged wading birds
which fairly consistently indicates that the importance of suitable foraging habitat decreases with the distance
from the nesting area (e.g. Dowd and Flake 1985, Custer et al. 2004, Kelly et al 1993, Thompson 1978). This
is not surprising considering the energy demands of long commutes and the fact that, all other things being
equal, if suitable foraging habitat is randomly distributed within the possible foraging range, simple geometry
would argue that availability would increase with the square of the distance from the colony. Consequently, a
particular type of wetland or riparian habitat is more critical if it is located close to a nesting area than a
similar area located near the edge of the energetically feasible foraging range from the colony. It would
therefore be unjustifiable to use the maximum foraging distance figures to define all potential foraging
habitat as critical foraging habitat for a particular nesting colony. Conversely, using an average foraging
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5400 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5401 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
5402 Breeding Foraging 9.1 mile
radii of
open
water/emer
gent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5403 Breeding Roosting Area 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5404 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5405 Breeding Nesting Colony 71.25
Meter
Buffer
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
distance figure may under-include suitable habitat by omitting some foraging areas that are important because
they provide particularly rich and easily exploited feeding habitat. Further, research (Custer et al. 2004)
indicates that longer commuting distances are more frequent during high-demand and demographically
critical nestling rearing period. Where the literature on commuting distance includes several studies, there can
be wide variability in the mean commuting distances between different studies. When such was the case, we
either averaged the reported mean commuting distances or used the information from the study with a large
sample size or from an area most ecologically similar to New Jersey. We then doubled this figure.
Research in North Carolina found that 84% of breeding long-legged waterbirds flew to foraging areas, which
is why habitat outside the vicinity of the colony must be valued as crucial to the success of the colony (Custer
and Osborn 1978). This same study documented the mean distance flown to foraging habitat by glossy ibis
was 7.3 km with a maximum distance flown as 12.4km. (Custer and Osborn 1978). In New Jersey, glossy ibis
use the entire area of salt marsh pools rather than just the edge as other long legged species may be inclined
to do (Wiese 1979). NatureServe recommends a minimum inferred extent of 3 km and justifies it by noting a
low mean foraging range size for this group (NatureServe 2006). We apply a 14.6 km radius around a colony
to protect foraging areas.
Literature:
Custer, C.M., S.A. Suarez, D.A. Olsen. 2004. Feeding habitat characteristics of the Great Blue
Heron and Great Egret nesting along the Upper Mississippi River, 1995-1998. Waterbirds
27(4): 454-68.
The majority of the herons in this study fed <5 km from the nesting site, and avoided areas > 10 km
away. They flew farther to sites during the brood-rearing period than during incubation. Only 10%
of the feeding flights ended at a location where another heron was present, indicating that they
prefer to feed alone.
Custer, T. W., R. G. Osborn. 1978. Feeding habitat use by colonially-breeding herons, egrets,
and ibises in North Carolina. Auk 95: 733-743.
In North Carolina, this small-scale study found that the mean distance to foraging habitat during
breeding season was 7.3 km (n = 5). The longest observed flight was 12.4 km. In North Carolina,
84% of breeding individuals flew to tidal foraging habitat. They generally prefer brackish/marine
habitats with relatively shallow water.
Dowd and Flake. 1985. Foraging habits and movements of nesting Great Blue Heron in
prairie river ecosystem, South Dakota. Journal of Field ornithology 56: 377-87.
A study in South Dakota found that the average distance that great blues flew from their colony to a
foraging site was 3.1 km, and the maximum observed distance was 24.4 km. Eighty-five percent of
the herons in the study fed within 4 km of the colony.
Kelly J. P., H. M. Pratt, P. L. Greene. 1993. The distribution, reproductive success, and
habitat characteristics of heron and egret breeding colonies in the San Francisco Bay area.
Colonial Waterbirds. 16:18-27.
> 95% of great blue herons and >90% great egrets fed within 20 km of their colony.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].
Version 6.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: June 4, 2007 ).
The breeding inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 3 km. For
the breeding season, this figure is based on a low mean foraging range size for this group.
Thompson. 1978. Feeding areas of Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets nesting in the
floodplain of the upper Mississippi River. Proc. Colonial Waterbird Group. 2: 202-13.
In central Minnesota the average distance that the herons flew from the colony to a foraging area
was 6.5 km, and the maximum observed was 20.4 km. Fifty-three percent of the herons in the study
fed within 4 km of the colony.
Wiese, J. H. 1979. A study of the reproductive biology of herons, egrets, and ibis nesting on
Pea Patch Island, Delaware. Final report. Manomet Bird Observertory, Manomet, MA.
In salt-marsh pools in New Jersey, ibises use the entire pool rather than just the edge.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davis
Vermivora chrysoptera
Golden-winged Warbler
Justification:
In New Jersey, territory sizes ranged from 0.17 to 7.84 hectares with the mean territory size of 1.66 (± 0.42)
hectares and males have been observed in areas > 800 meters from their nest and defended territory (DeFalco
pers. obs.). Territories in New York ranged from 0.4 - 6 ha (Confer 1992). The breeding buffer was chosen
based upon the mean territory size and mobility of the species. This species predominately uses scrub-shrub
habitat but will use the forest edges up to 30 meters into the forest (Confer 1992).
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5408 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
800 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5409 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5410 Breeding Breeding Sighting 800 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Confer, John L. 1992. Golden-winged Warbler. In The Birds of North America, No. 20 (A.
Poole, P. Stettenheim, and F. Gill, Eds.). Philadelphia: The Academy of Natural Sciences;
Washington, DC: The American Ornithologists’ Union.
Territories range from 0.4 -6 ha, depending on density of male, and can extend 5-30 m into forest.
No information was provided on migratory stopover habitat.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Ammodramus savannarum
Grasshopper Sparrow
Justification:
Mean breeding territories range from 0.19 to the highest upper confidence limit of 2.76 ha (Vickery 1996).
The breeding occurrence area was chosen based upon the upper limit territory size. Little is known about the
stopover habitat use, so the default occurrence area was chosen for the migrant individuals.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4776 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
90 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4778 Breeding Breeding Sighting 90 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4779 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Dechant, J. A., M. F. Dinkins, D. H. Johnson, L. D. Igl, C. M. Goldade, B. D. Parkin, and B. R.
Euliss. 1998 (revised 2002). Effects of management practice on grassland birds: Grasshopper
Sparrow. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. 28 pages.
Average territory size < 2 ha. Minimum area need to support breeding population may be > 30 ha.
Illinois minimum area 10-30 ha, not found in areas <10 ha, Nebraska 8- 12 ha with perimeter-area
ratio of 0.018.
Mitchell, L. R., C. R. Smith and R. A. Malecki, R. A. 2000. Ecology of grassland breeding
birds in the northeastern US - a literature review with recommendations for management.
USGS, BRD, NY Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, DNR, Cornell University,
Ithaca, NY 14853-3011. September 2000.
Vickery, P. D. 1996. Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum). In The Birds of
North America, No. 239 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc.,
Philadelphia, PA.
Minimum area requirements in Maine was 100 ha, Illinois 30 ha. Historically found in natural
clearings a few ha in size. Pennsylvania territories average 0.8 ha, Connecticut 0.66 ± 0.39 (SE) ha
in 1986 (n = 11) and 0.78 ± 0.24 (SE) ha in 1987, Wisconsin 0.85 ha, Michigan 1.4 ha, Florida 1.8 ±
0.96 ha. Western PA territories 0.19 ± 0.13 SD, W. Virginia 0.32 ha, s. California 0.37 ± 0.16 SD.
Territories shift during breeding season with arrival of late males. Males sing >50 m from nest.
Vickery, P. D., M. L. Hunter, Jr. and S. M. Melvin. 1994. Effects of habitat area on the
distribution of grassland birds in Maine. Conservation Biology 8(4): 1087-1097.
In Maine, Grasshopper sparrows reached 50% incidence at 100 ha, which may differ from other
areas due to rarity of species in Maine.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Catharus minimus
Gray-cheeked Thrush
Justification:
Gray-cheeked thrushes do not breed in NJ, so no breeding buffer was chosen. Based upon the radio-telemetry
study on spring migrants, a 25-meter occurrence area was chosen for non-breeding gray-cheeked thrushes.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5418 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 25 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Lowther, P. E., C. C. Rimmer, B. Kessel, S. L. Johnson, and W. G. Ellison. 2001. Gray-
cheeked Thrush (Catharus minimus). In The Birds of North America, No. 591 (A. Poole and
F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Little information about migratory stopover habitat. May be sighted in any treed or shrubby area,
even in city parks and suburban gardens (Ouellet 1996: 1170). Favors well-wooded sites with thick
understory or shrub layer, scarcer in more open woodlands, and infrequent in places with sparse or
no canopy (WGE) - habitats structurally similar to those used on breeding grounds (above). Mist-net
capture of migrant on 1 Jun 2000 in montane fir forest on Mt. Mansfield, VT, at 1,125 m elevation
(CCR) suggests selection of breeding-like habitat. Reports from scrub and shrub habitats in
Colombia and n. Venezuela seem referable to migrants (Paynter 1995). In an Illinois radio-tracking
study, 8 spring migrants confined daytime activities to 0.04-0.20-ha areas
Breeding habitat consists of areas with closed canopy of medium-height shrubs combined with a
dense woody undergrowth
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Ardea herodias
Great Blue Heron
Justification:
Nesting area is defined by the area the birds actually use, as these birds do not defend a territory except
immediately around their individual nests. The boundaries of the colony are defined as much by social
attraction phenomenon and by habitat suitability. Consequently there is now immediately apparent
justification for buffering the mapped extent of a nesting area. Where the mapped extent of a colony was
available it was used. Where the mapped extent was not available the default seconds precision circle was
used around the recorded nesting location point.
ENSP reviewed the literature regarding commuting distance for colonial nesting long-legged wading birds
which fairly consistently indicates that the importance of suitable foraging habitat decreases with the distance
from the nesting area (e.g. Dowd and Flake 1985, Custer et al. 2004, Kelly et al 1993, Thompson 1978). This
is not surprising considering the energy demands of long commutes and the fact that, all other things being
equal, if suitable foraging habitat is randomly distributed within the possible foraging range, simple geometry
would argue that availability would increase with the square of the distance from the colony. Consequently, a
particular type of wetland or riparian habitat is more critical if it is located close to a nesting area than a
similar area located near the edge of the energetically feasible foraging range from the colony. It would
therefore be unjustifiable to use the maximum foraging distance figures to define all potential foraging
habitat as critical foraging habitat for a particular nesting colony. Conversely, using an average foraging
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5419 Breeding Roosting Area 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5420 Breeding Foraging 7.5 mile
radii of
open
water/emer
gent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5421 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5422 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
5423 Breeding Nesting Colony 71.25
Meter
Buffer
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
5424 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
distance figure may under-include suitable habitat by omitting some foraging areas that are important because
they provide particularly rich and easily exploited feeding habitat. Further, research (Custer et al. 2004)
indicates that longer commuting distances are more frequent during high-demand and demographically
critical nestling rearing period. Where the literature on commuting distance includes several studies, there can
be wide variability in the mean commuting distances between different studies. When such was the case, we
either averaged the reported mean commuting distances or used the information from the study with a large
sample size or from an area most ecologically similar to New Jersey. We then doubled this figure.
The average foraging flight for great blue herons has been firmly established in the literature. The average
foraging flight has been observed at 2.3 km - 6.5 km (Butler 1991, Custer and Galli 2002, Dowd and Flake
1985, Parris 1979, Thompson 1978). The range of distance flown falls between <1 km- 27 km (Custer and
Galli 2002, Thompson 1978). Although great blue herons have been recorded feeding as far away as 27 km,
three studies found that the majority (at least 50%, and in one study 85%) of nesting herons fed within 4 or 5
km of the colony (Custer et al. 2004, Dowd and Flake 1985, Thompson 1978). Kelly, et al (1993) found that
> 95% of great blue herons in their study fed within 20 km of the colony. The NatureServe minimum inferred
extent is 3 km (NatureServe 2006). We apply a 12 km radius around a colony to protect foraging areas,
which is likely to capture the majority of the foraging habitat for that colony.
Literature:
Butler. 1991. Habitat selection and time of breeding in the Great Blue Heron. PhD
dissertation. University of British Columbia, Vancouver.
The average foraging commute in this study is btw. 2.3-6.5 km.
Custer, C.M., J. Galli. 2002. Feeding habitat selection by Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets
nesting in east central Minnesota. Waterbirds 25(1): 115-24.
In a study conducted in Minnesota great blue herons flew a median distance of 2.7 km (n=63) from
their colony to a foraging area. The range of distances flown fell between <1 km - 27 km. Most
wetlands that herons were located at were >350 ha.
Custer, C.M., S.A. Suarez, D.A. Olsen. 2004. Feeding habitat characteristics of the Great Blue
Heron and Great Egret nesting along the Upper Mississippi River, 1995-1998. Waterbirds
27(4): 454-68.
The majority of the herons in this study fed <5 km from the nesting site, and avoided areas > 10 km
away. They flew farther to sites during the brood-rearing period than during incubation. Only 10%
of the feeding flights ended at a location where another heron was present, indicating that they
prefer to feed alone.
Dowd and Flake. 1985. Foraging habits and movements of nesting Great Blue Heron in
prairie river ecosystem, South Dakota. Journal of Field ornithology 56: 377-87.
A study in South Dakota found that the average distance that great blues flew from their colony to a
foraging site was 3.1 km, and the maximum observed distance was 24.4 km. Eighty-five percent of
the herons in the study fed within 4 km of the colony.
Kelly J. P., H. M. Pratt, P. L. Greene. 1993. The distribution, reproductive success, and
habitat characteristics of heron and egret breeding colonies in the San Francisco Bay area.
Colonial Waterbirds. 16:18-27.
> 95% of great blue herons and >90% great egrets fed within 20 km of their colony.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
Inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 3 km. This is based on a
low mean foraging rate for this group.
Parris. 1979. Aspects of Great Blue Heron foraging ecology in southwest Lake Erie. MS
Thesis. Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.
The average foraging commute in this study is btw. 2.3-6.5 km.
Thompson. 1978. Feeding areas of Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets nesting in the
floodplain of the upper Mississippi River. Proc. Colonial Waterbird Group. 2: 202-13.
In central Minnesota the average distance that the herons flew from the colony to a foraging area
was 6.5 km, and the maximum observed was 20.4 km. Fifty-three percent of the herons in the study
fed within 4 km of the colony.
Date researched: 7/1/2006
Last researched by: Davis
Gelochelidon nilotica
Gull-billed Tern
Justification:
Gull-billed terns are unique among the breeding terns in New Jersey in that their primary prey items are not
small fish. Fish are part of their diet, but they are more likely to consume lizards, insects and chicks of other
species (Parnell, et al. 1995). Therefore when looking at the areas to be valued by this model, special
attention should be paid to the marsh islands that lie within the radius of the nesting colony, instead just the
open water that other tern models value. No species specific information is available for the foraging
commute of this species. NatureServe recommends a minimum inferred extent of 2 km, noting that this is a
conservative estimate (NatureServe 2006). Considering the paucity of information available we chose to stay
consistent with other Sterna species and we apply a 4.8 km buffer around the colony to protect foraging areas.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5431 Breeding Nesting Colony 71.25
Meter
Buffer
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
5432 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5433 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5434 Breeding Suspected Breeding
Location
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5435 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
5436 Breeding Foraging 3 mile
radii of
open
water/erme
rgent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].
Version 6.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: June 4, 2007 ).
The breeding inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 2 km. The
authors note that this is a conservative estimate.
Parnell, J.F., R.M., Erwin, K.C. Molina. 1995. Gull-billed tern (Sterna nilotica). In The Birds
of North America, No. 140 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of Natural Sciences,
Philadelphia and The American Ornithologist’s Union, Washington, D.C.
Unlike other terns nesting in the coastal marshes of New Jersey this species does not feed primarily
on fish but instead consumes lizards, insects, and sometimes chicks of other species.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davis
Ammodramus henslowii
Henslow's Sparrow
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 0.18 - 1 ha but have an upper confidence limit of 0.83 ha (Herkert 2001,
Herkert et al. 2002). The breeding occurrence area was chosen based on the upper limit territory size and
increased to account for shifting territories during the breeding season (Herkert et al. 2002). Little is known
about migratory stopover habitat use, so the default buffer was chosen.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4978 Breeding Breeding Sighting 75 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4980 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4982 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
75 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Herkert, J. R. 1998 (revised 2002). Effects of management practice on grassland birds:
Henslow’s Sparrow. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. 17 pages.
Individual territories range from 0.18 - 1 ha. In Kansas and New York, HESP are found in areas >
30 ha of grasslands. Illinois had 50% incidence in areas >55 ha. Another study in New York had
HESP in areas > 8 ha. Largest patches occupied first, but patches < 50 ha can also be used for
breeding. Isolated patches may also affect use of patch - used 16-ha patch that was within 1.6km of
larger occupied patch, but absent from 28-ha isolated patch. Territory size in Michigan was 0.3 ha,
0.7 ha ± 0.26 SD (n = 4) in Wisconsin, 0.18 ha ± 0.05 SD (n = 22) in w PA. Territories shift during
breeding season.
Herkert, J. R., P. D. Vickery, and D. E. Kroodsma. 2002. Henslow’s Sparrow (Ammodramus
henslowii). In The Birds of North America, No. 672 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of
North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Average territory size was 0.3 ha in Michigan, 0.7 ha ± 0.26 SD (n = 4) in Wisconsin, and 0.18 ha ±
0.05 SD (n = 22) in w. Pennsylvania. Males tend to shift territories throughout the breeding season.
In Robins’ (1971a) study, 10 males had only 1 territory that appeared to remain stable throughout
breeding season, 2 maintained 2 successive territories, 2 had 3 territories, and 4 had 4 territories.
Approximately 50% of foraging trips by both sexes were beyond territorial borders defended by
males. Males and females tended to forage in separate areas within or close to the home territory;
mean distances of males flying from the nest to forage was 30.8 m ± 4.3 SD, of females 24.9 m ±
2.1 SD.
Migratory stopover habitat includes brushy places, along hedgerows, at edges of shrubby places as
well as in grassy fields, prairies, and wet meadows.
Mitchell, L. R., C. R. Smith and R. A. Malecki, R. A. 2000. Ecology of grassland breeding
birds in the northeastern US - a literature review with recommendations for management.
USGS, BRD, NY Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, DNR, Cornell University,
Ithaca, NY 14853-3011. September 2000.
There were 5 studies in New York: one had minimum area of 36 ha and mean of 66 ha, another
minimum of 33.2 ha and mean 51.7 ha, another had habitat size ranging from 4.5 - 8.7 ha, another
between 3 and 20 ha, and another stating that at low population numbers Henslows may require
larger patches than actual minimum. In Illinois, habitat size ranged from 10-30 ha with 50%
incidence at 55 ha. Missouri habitat size ranged from 10 - 100 ha.
Pruitt, L. 1996, Henslow’s Sparrow Status Assessment. USFWS, Bloomington, IN.
This species can possibly breed in New Jersey and was confirmed breeding in the 1980s. They do,
however, migrate through New Jersey.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Wilsonia citrina
Hooded Warbler
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 0.5 - 0.75 ha in size and females may utilize areas 200 meters from their
territories to care for post-fledging chicks (Evans Ogden and Stutchbury 1994). Based upon a median
territory of 0.62 ha and adding the 200-meter post-fledging distance, a breeding occurrence area of 250
meters is recommended for this species. Non-breeding individuals are listed as stable in NJ so the default
occurrence area was chosen and will not be included in the Landscape Project.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5449 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5450 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5451 Breeding Breeding Sighting 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Evans Ogden, L. J. and B. J. Stutchbury. 1994. Hooded Warbler (Wilsonia citrina). In The
Birds of North America, No. 110 (A. Poole and F. Gill, Eds.). Philadelphia: The Academy of
Natural Sciences; Washington, D.C.: The American Ornithologists’ Union.
Breeding territories range from about 0.5-0.75 ha in size. Nearest neighbor distance in a high
density population averages (± SE) 99-112 m. Males and females feed mainly on their territory, with
males making forays off the territory for extra-pair mating attempts. Female not known to furtively
leave their territories during their fertile period (D. Neudorf and BJS unpubl. data).
Females may take fledged broods some distance (200 m) from natal territory, while males generally
feed their portion of brood on or near natal territory.
Inhabits a variety of forested habitats with an area > about 15 ha. Territories usually include small
clearings where a shrub understory is available for nesting, and females often place nests in shrub at
forest edge. Typically inhabit mature forests where trees are large enough to create significant tree
fall gaps. Commonly invades selectively logged deciduous forests 1-5 yr after harvesting, and
remains as long as there is suitable understory shrubs for nesting. In some cases, local populations
have declined dramatically as shrub layer disappeared. Often associated with moist woodlands and
ravines. Found breeding at elevations of 1,100 m, but more abundant at lower elevations.
Deciduous forests occupied usually dominated by maple, beech, or oak. A typical high-density
population in nw. Pennsylvania occupies a selectively logged habitat with major overstory trees of
beech, sugar maple, black cherry, and hemlock; principal understory trees and shrubs at this site
include blackberry, cherry, prickly gooseberry, maple-leaf viburnum, and common spicebush. S.
Ontario population occupied a deciduous forest with a canopy height of 28 m, canopy cover of 88%,
and shrub cover of 87%. This site consisted of several dominant species in shrub layer: maple-leaf
viburnum, red and black raspberry, white ash, choke cherry, and red maple.
Stopover sites include "cheniers" (coastal woodlands) along sw. coast of Louisiana and wooded
islands along the coasts of Alabama, Mississippi, and e. Louisiana. Cheniers support luxuriant
vegetation dominated by hackberry and live oak. Favors holly forests in s. New Jersey.
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Eremophila alpestris
Horned Lark
Justification:
Territories range from 0.008 - 5.1 ha (Beason 1995, Dinkins et al. 2000) and there is no minimum patch size
(Dinkins et al. 2000, Mitchell et al. 2000). The breeding occurrence area is based upon the upper limit of the
largest mean territory size and increased to incorporate the mobility of the species. The migrant and wintering
occurrence areas are based upon the wandering flocks formed while migrating and wintering.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5457 N/A Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5458 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5460 N/A Breeding Sighting 150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Beason, R. C. 1995. Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris). In The Birds of North America, No.
195 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, and The
American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C.
Territories range from 0.6 - 3.1 ha in the midwest, 0.3 - 5.1 ha in Colorado. Territory size is related
to density of males in a patch. Adults will fly 40 meters to discard fecal sacs and land 20 m from
nest and walk in to feed young. Wintering birds are not territorial and form large flocks that are
nomadic and wander over large areas for food.
Migratory stopover habitat is similar to breeding habitat but with increased use of beaches and sand
dunes; also mowed areas such as airfields. North American flocks of migrants often intermix with
resident conspecifics, and even form mixed-species flocks with other migrants such as longspurs
and buntings. Wintering habitat is similar to habitats occupied during breeding and migration
periods. In Oklahoma, for example, the shortest vegetation available, in Massachusetts, ocean
beaches, sand dunes, airfields. Frequently concentrated along roadsides when ground is covered
with deep snow.
Dinkins, M. F., A. L. Zimmerman, J. A. Dechant, B. D. Parkin, D. H. Johnson, L. D. Igl, C. M.
Goldade, and B. R. Euliss. 2000 (revised 2002). Effects of management practices on grassland
birds: Horned Lark. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. 34 pages.
Colorado territories in lightly-grazed pastures ranged from 0.3 - 1.5 ha and average 0.7 ha; heavily
grazed pastures had territories ranging from 1 - 1.7 ha and average 1.5 ha; mixed-grass pasture
average 1.1 ha; idle mixed-grass averaged 1.6 ha. Midwestern cropland territories ranged from 0.6 -
3.1 ha and averaged 1.6 ha; hayland territories ranged 1 - 2.5 ha. One Illinois territory was 0.008 ha.
Found on patches < 10 ha in Illinois.
Mitchell, L. R., C. R. Smith and R. A. Malecki, R. A. 2000. Ecology of grassland breeding
birds in the northeastern US - a literature review with recommendations for management.
USGS, BRD, NY Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, DNR, Cornell University,
Ithaca, NY 14853-3011. September 2000.
Areas range from 1-10 ha.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Oporornis formosus
Kentucky Warbler
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 1.21 to 3.75 ha with an average 2.21 ha, and adults tend to forage off
territories. Furthermore, fledglings will travel up to 200 m from the nest a week after fledging. The breeding
occurrence area was chosen to incorporate post-fledging habitat. There is little information about migrating
individuals, so the default occurrence area will be used for migrating species.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5462 Breeding Breeding Sighting 200 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5465 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
200 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5466 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
McDonald, M. V. 1998. Kentucky Warbler (Oporornis formosus). In The Birds of North
America, No. 324 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia,
PA.
Breeds in bottomland hardwoods and woods near streams with dense understory, often at low
elevations. Rarely observed in agricultural habitats. Well-developed ground cover for ground
nesting, and a thick understory, are essential. Studies of forest fragmentation in Missouri indicate
that blocks of suitable habitat (at least 500 ha) are necessary for successful breeding. An analysis of
floristic, structural, isolation, and area variables of forest fragments on coastal plain of Maryland
found that forest area, independent of its covariates, strongly affected presence/absence of Kentucky
Warbler.
Breeding-ground territories function as nesting and foraging areas that pairs (or unmated males)
occupy nearly exclusively through breeding season, although after fledging young may wander into
neighboring territories and parents follow, often unchallenged (perhaps undetected) by neighbors.
Early in breeding season, adults of both sexes sometimes forage off their territories, and seek extra-
pair copulations (MVM) as distantly as 500 m, but more often within 100 m of home. In Virginia,
average territory size is 2.21 ha (range 1.21-3.75, n = 493). Young travel up to 200 m from nest
within 1st week of fledging.
Little known about migratory habitat. May occur in suburban gardens and city parks.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Ixobrychus exilis
Least Bittern
Justification:
Very little research has been conducted on this secretive marsh bird. One telemetry study in New York
reported a mean home range for adults was 9.7 ha with a range of 1.8 ha - 35.7 ha. NatureServe does not
suggest an inferred extent for this species. The New York Study appears to be the most relevant to New
Jersey. A mean home range of 9.7 ha equates to a circle of radius 0.175km. We will use this value as an
inferred extent until such time as we have additional information, including New Jersey-specific data, to
justify a change in this value.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5473 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5474 Breeding Roosting Area 175 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5475 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5476 Breeding Foraging 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5477 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
175 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5478 Breeding Nest 175 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Bogner, H.C., G.A. Baldassarre. 2002. Home range, movement and nesting of least bittern in
western New York. Wilson Bulletin 114(3): 297-308.
A telemetry study in New York tracked 33 adults and 12 chicks. The mean home range of the adults
was 9.7 ha, with a range of 1.8-35.7 ha (which depended on whether the birds used one or two
breeding sites per season). The mean movement of the chicks was 13.4 m between capture and 23
days post-hatch and 29.4 m between 24-27 post-hatch.
Date researched: 7/1/2006
Last researched by: Davis
Empidonax minimus
Least Flycatcher
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 0.01 - 0.38 ha. Furthermore, fledglings will use areas within 100 meters of a
nest in the first month of fledging. The breeding occurrence area was chosen to incorporate the territory size
and the post-fledging habitat. Non-breeding individuals are listed as stable in NJ so the default occurrence
area was chosen and will not be included in the Landscape Project.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5479 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5482 Breeding Breeding Sighting 100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5484 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
100 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Briskie, J. V. 1994. Least Flycatcher (Empidonax minimus). In The Birds of North America,
No. 99 (A. Poole and F. Gill, Eds.). Philadelphia: The Academy of Natural Sciences;
Washington, D.C.: The American Ornithologists’ Union.
Mean territory size in Ontario: 0.13 ± 0.10 ha (range 0.03-0.38, n = 10); in New Hampshire: 0.18 ±
0.01 ha (n = 59); in Michigan: 0.07 ha (range 0.01-0.20, n = 33). Area utilized by flycatchers for
foraging, however, generally exceeds that defended by territorial male. Size of territory decreases
after laying.
Despite defense of exclusive territories, most flycatcher territories distributed in dense aggregations
or "colonies," leaving apparently adjacent suitable habitat unoccupied. Amount of forest occupied
by aggregations averaged 18.05 ± 3.38 ha (range 1.65-38.5) in Michigan. MacQueen (1950)
observed that large open areas near territory aggregations sometimes used as neutral feeding
grounds by all flycatchers nesting nearby and suggested such behavior may decrease intraspecific
conflict and size of individual territories. Use of neutral feeding areas not reported by other workers
and requires further study.
Territories of Least Flycatchers overlap extensively with those of other flycatcher species (e.g.,
Eastern Phoebe [Sayornis phoebe], Great Crested Flycatcher, and Eastern Wood-Pewee; Johnston
1971); however, flycatchers often exclude American Redstarts via interspecific aggression, leading
to partial interspecific territoriality. Both Least Flycatchers and American Redstarts have converged
on ecological niche of flycatching—both species overlap significantly in body size, bill
morphology, foraging behavior, and patterns of habitat exploitation. Most important method of
ecological segregation through horizontal spatial separation (i.e., decreased overlap of territories;
Sherry 1979). Degree of interspecific territoriality varies with redstart age: adult redstarts overlap
territories less than second-year redstarts.
Fledglings generally recaptured within 100 m of nest site until 10-14 d after leaving nest; thereafter
gradually dispersing so that by 20-24 d post-fledging they are about 500 m from nest, and by 30-34
d > 800 m from nest.
No published studies of habitat use during migration. Ely (1970) noted migrating Least Flycatchers
in w.-central Kansas generally confined to wooded habitats along water courses, gullies and
windbreaks, although occasionally found in tall weed growth and isolated trees.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Sternula antillarum
Least Tern
Justification:
Least terns nest primarily on Atlantic coast beaches in New Jersey, with the exception of a few inland nesting
sites in areas such as abandoned sand mines and airports. In coastal colonies in Georgia, least terns foraged
up to 4.9 km from colony locations (Tomkins 1959). In California, least terns in coastal colonies preferred
foraging in the ocean as opposed to other non-ocean foraging options. In that study, 90-95% of the terns
foraged within 1.6 km of the shoreline, and were never observed at distances of greater than 3.2 km (Atwood
1983). At interior sites, Schweitzer found that least terns would forage up to 12 km from nesting sites
(Schweitzer 1994). The majority of observed least terns along the Missouri River foraged within 100-200m
from nesting sites and the maximum sighting was 4.5 km away (Hill 1993). In some locations, least terns will
nest on rooftops. At a rooftop nesting site in Mississippi, terns foraged up to 4.5 km away (Jackson 1994).
NatureServe (2006) does not make any recommendations for inferred minimum extents.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4952 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4953 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
4954 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4955 Breeding Suspected Breeding
Location
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4956 Breeding Foraging 3 mile
radii of
open
water/erme
rgent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4957 Breeding Nesting Colony 71.25
Meter
Buffer
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
Atwood, J.L., D. E. Minsky 1983. Least Tern foraging ecology at three major California
breeding colonies. West. Birds 14: 57-71.
Approximately 75% of surveyed least terns in coastal California colonies foraged in the ocean as
opposed to other bodies of water. Approximately 90-95% of the birds feed within 1.6 km of the
shoreline in water less than 18.2 meters in depth. They were rarely observed foraging between 1.6 -
3.2 km offshore and were never observed at greater distances than 3.2 km miles.
Hill, L.A. 1993b. Design of constructed islands for nesting interior Least Terns. Pp. 109-118 in
Proceedings of the Missouri River and its tributaries: Piping Plover and Least Tern
Symposium (K. F. Higgins and M. R. Brashier, eds.). South Dakota State Univ., Brookings,
SD.
Least terns in interior areas forage primarily in 100-300 m from riverine nesting sites. However,
they may forage in areas up to 4.5 km away.
J. A. Jackson 1994. Terns on tar beach. Natural History 103(7): 46-53.
Least terns foraged 4.5 km from rooftop nest sites in Mississippi.
Schweitzer, S.H. 1994. Abundance and conservation of endangered interior Least Terns
nesting on salt flat habitat. Ph.D. diss., Oklahoma State Univ., Stillwater.
In response to localized abundance of suitable fish, terns foraged up to 12 km from inland salt flat
colonies.
Tomkins, I.R. 1959. Life history notes on the Least Tern. Wilson Bulletin 71: 313-322.
Nesting least terns foraged up to 4.9 km away when carrying food to a colony in Georgia.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Davis
Egretta caerulea
Little Blue Heron
Justification:
Nesting area is defined by the area the birds actually use, as these birds do not defend a territory except
immediately around their individual nests. The boundaries of the colony are defined as much by social
attraction phenomenon and by habitat suitability. Consequently there is now immediately apparent
justification for buffering the mapped extent of a nesting area. Where the mapped extent of a colony was
available it was used. Where the mapped extent was not available the default seconds precision circle was
used around the recorded nesting location point.
ENSP reviewed the literature regarding commuting distance for colonial nesting long-legged wading birds
which fairly consistently indicates that the importance of suitable foraging habitat decreases with the distance
from the nesting area (e.g. Dowd and Flake 1985, Custer et al. 2004, Kelly et al 1993, Thompson 1978). This
is not surprising considering the energy demands of long commutes and the fact that, all other things being
equal, if suitable foraging habitat is randomly distributed within the possible foraging range, simple geometry
would argue that availability would increase with the square of the distance from the colony. Consequently, a
particular type of wetland or riparian habitat is more critical if it is located close to a nesting area than a
similar area located near the edge of the energetically feasible foraging range from the colony. It would
therefore be unjustifiable to use the maximum foraging distance figures to define all potential foraging
habitat as critical foraging habitat for a particular nesting colony. Conversely, using an average foraging
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5485 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
5486 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5487 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5488 Breeding Nesting Colony 71.25
Meter
Buffer
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
5489 Breeding Roosting Area 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5490 Breeding Foraging 8.1 mile
radii of
open
water/emer
gent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
distance figure may under-include suitable habitat by omitting some foraging areas that are important because
they provide particularly rich and easily exploited feeding habitat. Further, research (Custer et al. 2004)
indicates that longer commuting distances are more frequent during high-demand and demographically
critical nestling rearing period. Where the literature on commuting distance includes several studies, there can
be wide variability in the mean commuting distances between different studies. When such was the case, we
either averaged the reported mean commuting distances or used the information from the study with a large
sample size or from an area most ecologically similar to New Jersey. We then doubled this figure.
Research in North Carolina found that 84% of breeding long-legged waterbirds flew to foraging areas, which
is why habitat outside the vicinity of the colony must be valued as crucial to the success of the colony (Custer
and Osborn 1978).Foraging commuting distances for little blue herons are highly variable, likely due to
factors such as prey availability and water depth and fluctuation (Rodgers and Smith 1995). This variability
can be observed in the flowing studies. In Florida, the average commuting distance was found to be 10.2 km
(Bancroft et al. 1990). In North Carolina, the average distance was 2.9 km (Custer and Osborn 1978).
NatureServe recommends a minimum inferred extent of 3 km and justifies it by noting a low mean foraging
range size for this group (NatureServe 2006). We apply a 13.1 km radius around a colony to protect foraging
areas.
Literature:
Bancroft, G. T., S. D. Jewell, A. M. Strong. 1990. Foraging and nesting ecology of herons in
the lower everglades relative to water conditions. Final report to South Fla. Water Manage.
Dist., West Palm Beach, FL.
In Florida, the average commuting distance of little blue herons to foraging sites from a marsh
island colony was 10.2 km.
Custer, C.M., S.A. Suarez, D.A. Olsen. 2004. Feeding habitat characteristics of the Great Blue
Heron and Great Egret nesting along the Upper Mississippi River, 1995-1998. Waterbirds
27(4): 454-68.
The majority of the herons in this study fed <5 km from the nesting site, and avoided areas > 10 km
away. They flew farther to sites during the brood-rearing period than during incubation. Only 10%
of the feeding flights ended at a location where another heron was present, indicating that they
prefer to feed alone.
Custer, T. W., R. G. Osborn. 1978. Feeding habitat use by colonially-breeding herons, egrets,
and ibises in North Carolina. Auk 95: 733-743
In North Carolina, little blue herons commuted an average of 2.9 km from a coastal colony to
foraging sites.
Dowd and Flake. 1985. Foraging habits and movements of nesting Great Blue Heron in
prairie river ecosystem, South Dakota. Journal of Field ornithology 56: 377-87.
A study in South Dakota found that the average distance that great blues flew from their colony to a
foraging site was 3.1 km, and the maximum observed distance was 24.4 km. Eighty-five percent of
the herons in the study fed within 4 km of the colony.
Kelly J. P., H. M. Pratt, P. L. Greene. 1993. The distribution, reproductive success, and
habitat characteristics of heron and egret breeding colonies in the San Francisco Bay area.
Colonial Waterbirds. 16:18-27.
> 95% of great blue herons and >90% great egrets fed within 20 km of their colony.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].
Version 6.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: June 4, 2007 ).
The breeding inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 3 km. For
the breeding season, this figure is based on a low mean foraging range size for this group.
Rodgers, J. A., Jr., and H. T. Smith. 1995. Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea). In The Birds
of North America, No. 145 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of Natural Sciences,
Philadelphia, and The American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C.
Choice of foraging sites and length of time a particular area is used are highly variable, depending
on prey available, water depth, and water-level fluctuation. Flight distance to foraging sites varies
among studies, probably reflecting food availability.
Thompson. 1978. Feeding areas of Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets nesting in the
floodplain of the upper Mississippi River. Proc. Colonial Waterbird Group. 2: 202-213.
In central Minnesota the average distance that the herons flew from the colony to a foraging area
was 6.5 km, and the maximum observed was 20.4 km. Fifty-three percent of the herons in the study
fed within 4 km of the colony.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davis
Lanius ludovicianus migrans
Loggerhead Shrike
Justification:
Little is known about the occurrence of this species in New Jersey, but it is unlikely that this species breeds in
New Jersey (Pruitt 2000). Elsewhere, territories ranged from 2.7 to 34 ha (Dechant et al. 1998, Yosef 1996).
The occurrence area was chosen based upon the upper range of territory size.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4795 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Dechant, J. A., M. L. Sondreal, D. H. Johnson, L. D. Igl, C. M. Goldade, M. P. Nenneman, A.
L. Zimmerman, and B. R. Euliss. 1998 (revised 2002). Effects of management practices on
grassland birds: Loggerhead Shrike. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown,
ND. 19 pages.
Territories 6-9 ha averaging 2.7 ha in Alberta to 25 ha in Idaho. Alberta ROW territories were 8.5
ha. Average Missouri territories were 4.6 ha.
Pruitt, L. 2000. Loggerhead Shrike Status Assessment. USFWS, Bloomington, IN.
This species has not been documented breeding in New Jersey since the early 1900s. It is a partial
migrant only in northern part of range and migration may depend on severity of winter and food
availability in breeding habitat during wintertime. Stopover sites are different in spring than fall and
individuals may migrate between wintering sites.
Winter habitat is not different from breeding habitat. May move from pastures to more shrub-forest
habitat in winter, particularly when snow-covered. Could also use more cropland in winter
Yosef, R. 1996. Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus). In The Birds of North America, No.
231 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, and The
American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C.
Breeding territories averaged 13.4 ha in Alberta, 34 ha in California, 4.6 ha in Missouri, 7.5 ha in
New York, 8.35 ha in Florida, and 8.9 ha and 25 ha in Idaho. No information on minimum patch
size was provided. Breeding territories maintained year-round in Florida and S. Carolina, but not in
California.
No information provided on migratory habitat - assume similar to breeding habitat. Winter habitat
also similar to breeding habitat but hay fields and idle pastures used in addition to scrub-shrub and
open forest habitat
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Asio otus
Long-eared Owl
Justification:
No information was found regarding home range/territory sizes for long-eared owls in the northeast.
Reported home ranges for this species are highly variable and range from 0.7 - 20.25 km2 (Kirschbaum and
Ivory 1999). Craighead and Craighead (1956) reported home ranges for long-eared owls in Wyoming ranging
from 34 - 106 ha with an average of 51 ha. Knight and Erickson (1977) estimated breeding densities along the
Columbia River to be approximately 1 pair/12 linear km. Along the Snake River in Idaho an average of
0.28 - 0.42 nesting pairs per square km was estimated, as compared to areas in southern Idaho where from
0.64 - 1.55 pairs per square kilometer where found (Marks 1986). Due to the paucity of information on home
range for long-eared owls, especially in the northeast, a conservative home range estimate of 50 ha has been
adopted based on the available literature.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4787 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 400 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4790 Breeding Breeding Sighting 400 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4792 Breeding Nest 400 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4793 Non-
Breeding
Roosting Area 400 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Craighead, J.J., and F.C. Craighead, Jr. 1956. Hawks, owls and wildlife. Stackpole Books,
Harrisburg, PA. 443pp.
Home ranges in Wyoming ranged from 34 - 106 ha with an average of 51 ha.
Kirschbaum, K.,and A. Ivory. 1999. Asio Otus (On-line) Animal Diversity Web. Accessed
April 4, 2007 at
http://animaldiversity,ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Asio_otus.html .
Reported that home ranges were highly variable and ranged from 0.7 - 20.25 square kilometers.
Knight, R.L., and A.W. Erickson. 1977. Ecological notes on long-eared and great horned owls
along the Columbia River. Murrelet 58: 2-6.
Reported 1 pair per 12 linear kilometers of riparian habitat in Washington.
Marks, J. S., D. L. Evans, and D. W. Holt. 1994. Long-eared Owl (Asio otus). In The Birds of
North America, No. 133 (A. Poole and F. Gill, Eds.). Philadelphia: The Academy of Natural
Sciences; Washington, D.C.: The American Ornithologists’ Union.
Two breeding pairs were tracked for 8-9 nights and were found to use a core area within 1 km of the
nest with occasional forays up to 3 km from the nest.
Marks, J.S. 1986. Nest site characteristics and reproductive success of long-eared owls (Asio
otus) in southwestern Idaho. Wilson Bull. 98: 547-60.
Reported home ranges in Idaho along the Snake River ranging from 238 to 357 ha. Elsewhere in
southeastern Idaho home ranges varied from 65 to 155 ha.
Date researched: 4/1/2007
Last researched by: Valent
Migratory raptor concentration site
Migratory Raptor Concentration Site
Justification:
Mapped polygons represent all non-urban habitat (2012 NJDEP LU/LC) in the lower 10 kilometers of the
Cape May peninsula.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
7887 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
Hand
Digitized
Polygon
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
McCann, J. M., S. E. Mabey, L. J. Niles, C. Bartlett, and P. Kerlinger. 1993. A regional study
of coastal migratory stopover habitat for Neotropical migrant songbirds: Land management
implications. Trans. N. Amer. Wildlife and Natural Resources Conf. 58:398-407.
N/A
Niles, L.J., J. Burger, and K. E. Clark. 1996. The influence of weather, geography, and
habitat on migrating raptors on Cape May peninsula. Condor 98:382-394.
N/A
Date researched: 8/13/2015
Last researched by: Clark
Migratory shorebird concentration site
Migratory Shorebird Concentration Site
Justification:
During northbound spring migration (late-April to early June), shorebirds gather in large numbers to forage
on horseshoe crab eggs and roost on Delaware Bay and Atlantic Coast beaches and marshes (Clark et al.
1993, Burger et al. 1997, Niles et al. 2008). During fall migration, large numbers of shorebirds concentrate
on Atlantic Coast beaches and mudflat sites to build weight for southward migration (Niles et al. 2011), or
remain for longer durations (2 - 6 months) to molt flight feathers (ENSP unpub. Data) and/or overwinter.
Polygons delineate the extent of coastal areas where ENSP has documented shorebirds congregating to
forage, roost and rest. These areas were digitized over current aerial photography using the presence of
important features such as mudflats and beaches to guide delineation. Areas delineated as polygons did not
receive a buffer (that would value adjacent suitable habitats).
Shorebird concentration areas support several species of migrating shorebirds, including state endangererd
and special concern species as well as several considered conservation priority species in the US Shorebird
Conservation Plan, (2001): Red Knot, Sanderling, American Oystercatcher, Whimbrel, Semipalmated
Sandpiper, Piping Plover, Spotted Sandpiper, and 26 declining shorebirds: American Avocet, American
Golden Plover, Baird’s sandpiper, Black-bellied Plover, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Cerlew Sandpiper, Dunlin,
Greater Yellowlegs, Hudsonian Godwit, Killdeer, Least Sandpiper, Lesser Yellowlegs, Long-billed
Dowitcher, Marbled Godwit, Pectoral Sandpiper, Purple Sandpiper, Ruddy Turnstone, Semipalmated Plover,
Short-billed Dowitcher, Solitary Sandpiper, Spotted Sandpiper, Stilt Sandpiper, Western Sandpiper, White-
rumped Sandpiper, Willet, Wilson’s Snipe; (ENSP and NJ Audubon Society Unpubl. Data, US Shorebird
Conservation Plan, 2001).
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
7701 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration-Major
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5756 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
Burger, J., L. Niles, and K. E. Clark. 1997. Importance of beach, mudflat, and marsh
habitats to migrant shorebirds on Delaware Bay. Biological Conservation 79:283-292.
N/A
Clark, K. E., L. J. Niles, and J. Burger. 1993. Abundance and distribution of migratory
shorebirds in Delaware Bay, NJ. Condor 95:694-705.
Niles, L. J., H. P. Sitters, A. D. Dey, P. W. Atkinson, A. J. Baker, K. A. Bennett, R. Carmona,
K. E. Clark, N. A. Clark, C. Espoz, P. M. Gonzalez, B. A. Harrington, D. E. Hernandez, K. S.
Kalasz, R. G. Lathrop, R. N. Matus, C. D. T. Minton, R. I. G. Morrison, M. K. Peck, W. Pitts,
R. A. Robinson, and I. L. Serrano. 2008. Status of the Red Knot (Calidris canutus rufa) in
the Western Hemisphere. Studies in Avian Biology, No. 36. Cooper Ornithological Society.
Niles, L. J., J. Burger, R. R. Porter, A. D. Dey, C. D. T. Minton, P. M. Gonzalez, A. J. Baker,
J. W. Fox and C. Gordon. 2010. First results using light level geolocators to track Red Knots
in the Western Hemisphere show rapid and long intercontinental flights and new details of
migration pathways. Wader Study Group Bull. 117(2):123-130.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Clark
Oreothlypis ruficapilla
Nashville Warbler
Justification:
Little information is known about breeding territories of Nashville warblers, so the breeding occurrence area
was chosen based on the upper limit breeding density calculated to a territory size of 2.5 ha (Williams 1996).
The nonbreedingpopulation is listed as stable in NJ, so no occurrence area was chosen and will not be
included in the Landscape Project.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6539 Breeding Breeding Sighting 90 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
6541 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
90 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
6542 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Williams, J. M. 1996. Nashville Warbler (Vermivora ruficapilla). In The Birds of North
America, No. 205 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia,
and The American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C.
Breeding territory in East: 5-15 pairs/40.5 ha in Vermont. In subalpine area in White Mtns. of New
Hampshire, territory size 1.1 ha, with 9 pairs (± 3 SE)/km2; in nearby area of virgin spruce grove,
density increased to 24 pairs/km2. During spruce-budworm outbreak in Maine and New Hampshire,
territorial density >0.5 territories/ha.
Prefers second growth, open deciduous, or mixed-species forests, with high level of light
penetration; preferably with shrubby undergrowth. Never found in unbroken forest. In New York,
nests in mixed forests, edges, and fields. In the East, sometimes inhabits mountains slopes,
including fairly steep ones, as high as 1,400 m, but not above timberline. Nests farther south are
found in drier, more open, cut-over areas and in second-growth forests, especially with aspen, birch,
and alder (Alnus).
During migration, frequents deciduous trees or shrubs in open mixed forests at mid-canopy level,
bushy edges of woodlands along streams, roads, and paths, or edges of fields, meadows, and ponds,
swamps, or marshes. Often seen in mixed-species flocks in both spring and fall migration.
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Accipiter gentilis
Northern Goshawk
Justification:
Northern goshawks’ home range sizes vary both seasonally and by sex. Males generally have larger
territories than females, although there are exceptions, and both sexes have larger territories during the non-
breeding season than during the breeding season (Squires and Reynolds 1997). Breeding habitats are more
selective, the hawks preferring large, contiguous tracts of mature forests and forested wetlands (Squires and
Reynolds 1997, Bosakowski and Speiser 1994), while non-breeding habitats may also include young forests,
scrub-shrub habitats and ecotones between forest and open fields and agricultural lands (Squires and
Reynolds 1997, Bosakowski and Speiser 1994). Results from research on home ranges sizes vary greatly and
no home range size determination has been developed for eastern populations. However, due to the similarity
in habitat preferences and behavior of northern goshawks and red-shouldered hawks in NJ and NY
(Bosakowski and Speiser 1994), the same occurrence area will be used as a conservative estimate of northern
goshawk critical habitat until new research suggests differently.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4797 N/A Nest 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4798 N/A Breeding Sighting 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4800 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Bosakowski, Thomas and Robert Speiser. 1994. Macrohabitat Selection by Nesting Northern
Goshawks: Implications for Managing Eastern Forests. Studies in Avian Biology. 16:46-49.
Squires, J. R., and R. T. Reynolds. 1997. Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis). In The Birds
of North America, No. 298 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of Natural Sciences,
Philadelphia, PA, and The American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C.
Home range studies varied in methodology and focused on western populations of northern
goshawks: Arizona males’ ranges varied from 1,758 ha + 500 (std. dev.) (range 896 - 2,528 ha).
New Mexico males’ ranges varied from 2,106 ha + 635 (std. dev.) (range 1,698 - 2,837 ha); New
Mexico females’ ranges varied from 569 ha + 473 (std. dev.) (range 95 - 1,292 ha). California
males’ ranges varied from 1,340 ha + 810 (std. dev.) (2 males, one with 1,790 ha range and 3,010 ha
range). Northern California males’ ranges varied from 2,425 ha (1,083 ha - 3,902 ha); Northern
California females’ ranges varied from 3,774 ha (2,007 - 6908 ha).
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Schantz
Circus cyaneus
Northern Harrier
Justification:
Breeding territories range from about 1 ha to over 1,500 ha (Dechant et al. 1998, MacWhirter and Bildstein
1996). The breeding occurrence area was chosen based upon evidence of large territories, the distance
traveled for foraging, and the mobility of the species (Dechant et al. 1998). The non-breeding occurrence area
was chosen based upon evidence of smaller territories (MacWhirter and Bildstein 1996) than breeding
territories and the mobility of the species. No minimum patch size was chosen due to evidence that harriers
will use smaller patches (Dechant et al. 1998).
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4805 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4806 N/A Breeding Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4808 N/A Nest 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Dechant, J. A., M. L. Sondreal, D. H. Johnson, L. D. Igl, C. M. Goldade, M. P. Nenneman, and
B. R. Euliss. 1998 (revised 2002). Effects of management practices on grassland birds:
Northern Harrier. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. 15 pages.
In North Dakota, uncommon in areas < 100 ha. In Illinois, nested in grasslands 8-120 ha in size.
May respond to total amount of grassland in area instead of patch size - small fragments may be
used if located near larger patches. Missouri nesting density: 121 ha per pair. Male home ranges
averaged 890 ha. In Manitoba males defended 27.7 ha centered on nest. In Minnesota traveled over
259 ha to hunt. Idaho territories averaged 1570 ha for males and 113 ha for females.
MacWhirter, R. B., and K. L. Bildstein. 1996. Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus). In The
Birds of North America, No. 210 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of Natural
Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, and The American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C.
Not very territorial except of the nest. In New Brunswick male breeding territories were 100 ha,
female territories 10 ha. In Idaho, male territories were 0.8 ha. Nonbreeding territories were 65 ha in
SE US, California ranged from 3.9 - 125 ha and a mean of 33.6 ha.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Petzinger
Parula americana
Northern Parula
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 0.08 - 0.65 ha. The breeding occurrence area was chosen based upon the
upper limit territory size. Non-breeding individuals are listed as stable in NJ so no occurrence area was
chosen.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5511 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5513 Breeding Breeding Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5516 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Moldenhauer, R. R., and D. J. Regelski. 1996. Northern Parula (Parula americana). In The
Birds of North America, No. 215 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of Natural
Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, and The American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C.
Primarily a riparian species; usually associated with mature forest with epiphytic growth. Prefers
tall, mature coniferous forests with spruce, hemlock, and fir in moist bog and swamp habitat where
beard moss is abundant. In hardwood stands of sugar maple, red maple, paper birch, and yellow
birch in Nova Scotia, most abundant in 40-yr-old stands of trees, less numerous in younger and
older-aged. Density positively correlated with tree density, basal area, percent canopy cover, and
canopy height. In n.-central Minnesota, inhabits primarily mature undisturbed mixed forest of
predominately deciduous trees with moderate ground and shrub cover and >75% canopy cover.
Numbers positively correlated with the presence of sycamore in s. Illinois. In Middle Atlantic states,
forest area was a significant predictor of this species’ relative abundance; in a forest area of >3,000
ha, maximum probability of occurrence, with probability of occurrence dropping to 50% for forest
areas of 520 ha. Rarely encountered in forests of <100 ha.
In Nova Scotia, mean territory size 0.32 ha (n = 26, range 0.08-0.65). Potential competitors affect
territory size and density; mean territory size 0.4 ha (0.30-0.51) for birds inhabiting the mainland
spruce forests of Maine, but species occupies offshore islands only 0.16 ha in size.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Pandion haliaetus
Osprey
Justification:
All wetland habitats within 300 meters of a nest are designated as critical habitat. Home range size is much
larger than 300 meters and determined by availability of food (fish); only the nest area itself is defended. In
NJ colonies, some nests are as close as 120 meters, but most are more than 500 meters apart (KEC). While
ospreys generally tolerate and nest in proximity to people, human activity of certain types and at certain times
of the season will disrupt nesting and can cause injury or mortality to young.
Foraging habitat is defined as open waters within 2 km of nests. A USFWS osprey habitat model for the
eastern U.S. represented foraging habitat as waters (riverine, lake and shallow coastal waters) within 2 km
radius of nests, based on numerous literature sources. Ospreys may forage as far as 20 km from nests, but
most foraging occurs closer to the nest as long as foraging conditions there are adequate.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4815 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4811 Breeding Nest 300 Meter
Buffer
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
4812 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
8493 Breeding Foraging 2.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
Poole, A. F. 1989. Ospreys: a natural and unnatural history. Cambridge Univ. Press.
Cambridge, U.K.
Nests in MA were spaced 140 m apart in a salt marsh area with artificial nest structures, farther in
upland situations (Table 8.6 in Poole 1989).
Poole, A. F., R. Bierregaard, and M. S. Martell. 2002. Osprey (Pandion haliaetus). In The
Birds of North America, No. 683 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America Inc.,
Philadelphia, PA.
The nest area is determined by food availability, nest structure availability, and type of nest structure
(artificial nest-pole, tree, channel marker, cell tower) and height.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2000. Osprey Habitat Model. USFWS Region 5,
www.fws.gov/r5gomp/gom/habitatstudy/metadata/osprey_model.htm.
N/A
Date researched: 3/3/2011
Last researched by: Clark
Falco peregrinus
Peregrine Falcon
Justification:
All emergent wetland habitats within 1 km of a nest are designated as critical habitat. Home range size is
much larger than 1 km, as peregrines forage on birds found in open habitats within 5 km of the nest. Prey
species are mainly passerines, shorebirds and doves found in open habitats, usually within 1-5 km of the
nest. Typical hunting habitats are emergent marsh, scrub-shrub, beach, dunes and intertidal flats. In urban
areas, any of those habitat types are used, in addition to the urban setting itself, where peregrines hunt rock
pigeons (Columba livia). In urban areas, Columba species may comprise 31% of the peregrine diet, and
resident bird species (including Columba species) more than 90% (by occurrence; Nadareski 2001). In
contrast, Steidl et al. (1997) found that nearly 70% of the diet of NJ coastal peregrines consisted of migratory
birds, predominantly shorebirds. These diet figures point to the habitat differences between coastal/marsh
nesting peregrines and urban-nesting peregrines.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4860 N/A Urban Nest 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4861 N/A Nest 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4863 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4865 N/A Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
Nadareski, C. A. 2001. Analysis of prey of the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) for the
Port of New York/New Jersey. Unpublished report to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. May
2001.
N/A
Steidl, R. J., C. R. Griffin, T. P. Augspurger, D. W. Sparks, L. J. Niles. 1997. Prey of
peregrine falcons from the New Jersey coast and associated contaminant levels. Northeast
Wildlife 52:11-19.
N/A
White, C. M., N. J. Clum, T. J. Cade, and W. G. Hunt. (2002). Peregrine Falcon (Falco
peregrinus). The Birds of North America Online (A. Poole, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Laboratory
of Ornithology; Retrieved from The Birds of North American Online database:
http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/BNA/account/Peregrine_Falcon/.
N/A
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Clark
Podilymbus podiceps
Pied-billed Grebe
Justification:
The average home range in one study was found to be 1.3 ha, although another study reports a home range as
large as 35 ha (Glover 1953, Muller 1995). A similar species, the red-necked grebe, had a home range of 114
meters (Palmer 1962). Pied-billed grebes will defend a circular area with a radius of 46 m from the nest, but
sometimes the radius will be smaller than this (Johnsgard 1987). NatureServe reports a minimum inferred
extent of 0.11 km (NatureServe 2006). We are accepting the NatureServe minimum inferred extent of 0.11
km until such time as that is changed or we have additional information, including New Jersey-specific data,
to justify a change in this value.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4819 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
110 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4820 Breeding Foraging 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4821 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4822 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4823 Breeding Nest 110 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Glover. 1953. Nesting ecology of the pied-billed grebe in northwestern Iowa. Wilson Bulletin
65: 32-39.
The average home range of pied-billed grebes in Iowa was 1.3 ha (n=44), which is roughly a circle
with a diameter of 130 m.
Johnsgard. 1987. Diving birds of North America. University of Nebraska Press. Lincoln xii.
292 pp.
An area of a radius of 46 m around the nest is defended by pied-billed grebes, though it is
sometimes smaller than this.
Muller. 1995. Pied-billed grebes nesting on Green Lake, Seattle Washington. Washington
Birds 4:35-59.
Some pied-billed grebes had a home range as large as 35 ha.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
Inferred minimum extent is 0.11 km.
Palmer. 1962. Handbook of North American birds. Vol 1. Loons through flamingoes. R.S.
(ed.). Yale University Press, New Haven. 567 pgs.
Red-necked grebes had a home range of approximately 114 meters.
Date researched: 7/1/2006
Last researched by: Davis
Charadrius melodus
Piping Plover
Justification:
Piping plovers nest singly or in loose colonies on the Atlantic coast beaches in New Jersey. They maintain a
breeding territory that consists of a section of shoreline (for feeding) and a portion of beach (for nesting)
(Whyte 1985). Males defend territories (pre-nest) of up to 10,000m2 (Cairns 1982). Home range during
incubation is generally confined to the vicinity of the nest. Distances to nearest nest highly variable: averages
include 50 m apart in Nova Scotia (Cairns 1977) to a range of 500m - 5000m in New York (Elias-Gerken
1994). In New Jersey, piping plover territories appear to be at least partially based on the amount of habitat
available. Pairs with fewer conspecifics on the site tend to maintain larger territories, and pairs that are
spaced at a higher density tend to have smaller territories (C. Kisiel, personal communication, February 23,
2007).
Piping plover chicks are precocial and therefore highly mobile (Cairns 1982). In NJ, broods have been
documented traveling maximum distances of up to three-quarters of a mile (1207 meters) (T. Pover, personal
communication, February 13, 2007). Chick mobility varies in other states: in Maryland and Virginia distances
varied from 32m - 600+ meters (both studies n=59 broods) (Patterson 1988, Cross 1989). At another
Maryland study, brood distances averaged 143m (n=87 broods), but three weeks post hatch increased to an
average of 237m (n=80broods). In North Carolina, the average was 274.23m (n=14 broods) (Coutu, et al
1990).In Massachusetts, 50% the focal chicks moved >200m in the first 5 days post hatch (50% moved
<100m) (n=10 chicks) (Strauss 1990).
In nesting areas outside NJ, territory size also varied by point in the nesting cycle and among sites: an average
of 4,000 m2 in Nova Scotia (Cairns 1982) to 27,022 - 30,547 m2 in Saskatchewan (Whyte 1985). Natureserve
recommends a buffer of 1.5 km when actual extent is unknown.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4941 Breeding Nest 750 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4942 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4943 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4944 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4945 Breeding Nesting Area 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
A. J. Whyte. 1985. Breeding ecology of the Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus) in central
Saskatchewan. M.S. thesis, Univ. Saskatchewan, Saskatoon.
Birds primarily fed within 15 m of the shoreline on Big Quill Lake, Saskatchewan but also
sometimes fed near nest. Pairs maintained a 27,022 - 30,547 m2 territory.
Coutu, S.D., J.D. Fraser, J.L. McConnaughy, and J.P. Loegering. 1990. Piping plover
distribution and reproductive success on Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Unpublished
report to the National Park Service. 67pp.
Observations of 11 broods averaged 2121m from their nests; 3 broods moved 400-725 m from their
nest sites.
Cross,R.R. 1989. Monitoring, management and research of the piping plover at Chincoteague
National Wildlife Refuge. Unpublished report. Virginia Department of Game and Inland
Fisheries Virginia. 80pp.
At 3 sites, observers recorded broods at a mean distance from their nests of 153 m +/-97m (44
observations, 14 broods), 32m +/- 7m (8 observations, 3 broods), and 492m +/-281m (12
observations, 4 broods).
Elias S.P., J. D. Fraser, P. A. Buckley. 2000. Piping Plover brood foraging ecology on New
York barrier islands. J. Wildl. Manage. 64: 346-354.
On ocean beaches wrack line is preferred foraging habitat for chicks followed by vegetated dunes.
Elias-Gerken, S.P. 1994. Piping plover habitat suitability on central Long island, New York
barrier islands. M.S.Thesis. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg,
Virginia, 48pp.
In New York in 1992, she observed 2.1 pairs/km on Westhampton Island, 1.8 pairs/km on Jones
Island and 0.2 km/pair on Fire Island.
Haig, Susan M., and Elliott-Smith, E. (2004). Piping Plover. The Birds of North America
Online. (A. Poole, Ed.) Ithaca: Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology; Retrieved from The Birds
of North American Online database:
http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/BNA/account/Piping_Plover/.
While percentage of feeding near the shoreline varies by sex, age, and stage of breeding, birds feed
chiefly within 5 m of the water’s edge; only at sunset do parents and broods return to feed on higher
ground. In Manitoba, individual breeders seen throughout the breeding season at sites that ranged
from 3-102 km apart.
J. Whyte. 1985. Breeding ecology of the Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus) in central
Saskatchewan. M.S. thesis, Univ. Saskatchewan, Saskatoon.
Describes piping plover nesting habitat requirements.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
The inferred minimum extent habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 1.5 km (diameter).
Patterson, M.E. 1988. piping plover breeding biology and reproductive success on Assateague
Island. M.S. thesis. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia.
131 pp.
Eighteen of 38 broods moved to feeding areas 100+m from nest, 5 broods moved 600+m. The
distances were measured parallel to the wrack line.
Strauss,E. 1990. Reproductive success, life history patterns and behavioral variation in a
population of piping plovers subjected to human disturbance (1982-1989). Ph.D. dissertation.
Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts. 143pp.
Ten chicks moved more than 200m during the first 5 days post-hatch while 19 chicks moved less
than 200m during the same interval.
W. E. Cairns. 1977. Breeding biology and behavior of the piping plover Charadrius melodus
in southern Nova Scotia. M.S. Thesis. Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia. 115pp.
Pairs nested, on average, 50m apart at this Nova Scotia study site. The shortest observed distance
between two nests was 3 m.
W. E. Cairns. 1982. Biology and behavior of breeding Piping Plovers. Wilson Bull.94: 531-545.
Males run distances of up to 100m during parallel run displays in pre-nesting territory disputes.
Pairs maintained an average of a 4,000m2 territory.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Davis
Calidris canutus
Red Knot
Justification:
During northbound spring migration (late-April to early June), shorebirds gather in large numbers to forage
on horseshoe crab eggs and roost on Delaware Bay and Atlantic Coast beaches and marshes (Clark et al.
1993, Burger et al. 1997, Niles et al. 2008). During fall migration, large numbers of shorebirds concentrate
on Atlantic Coast beaches and mudflat sites to build weight for southward migration (Niles et al. 2011), or
remain for longer durations (2 - 6 months) to molt flight feathers (ENSP unpub. Data) and/or overwinter.
Polygons delineate the extent of coastal areas where ENSP has documented shorebirds congregating to
forage, roost and rest. Species occurrence areas for red knot were either recorded as a point location to
identify where an individual or flock occurred or were digitized as polygons to reflect the area where flocks
have been repatedly observed. Current aerial photography was used in delineating the SOA using the
presence of important features such as mudflats and beaches to guide delineation. Areas delineated as
polygons did not receive a buffer whereas those areas delineated as points received the standard or default
buffer or 71.25 m.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4996 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
Burger, J., L. Niles, and K. E. Clark. 1997. Importance of beach, mudflat, and marsh
habitats to migrant shorebirds on Delaware Bay. Biological Conservation 79:283-292.
N/A
Clark, K. E., L. J. Niles, and J. Burger. 1993. Abundance and distribution of migratory
shorebirds in Delaware Bay, NJ. Condor 95:694-705.
Niles, L. J., H. P. Sitters, A. D. Dey, P. W. Atkinson, A. J. Baker, K. A. Bennett, R. Carmona,
K. E. Clark, N. A. Clark, C. Espoz, P. M. Gonzalez, B. A. Harrington, D. E. Hernandez, K. S.
Kalasz, R. G. Lathrop, R. N. Matus, C. D. T. Minton, R. I. G. Morrison, M. K. Peck, W. Pitts,
R. A. Robinson, and I. L. Serrano. 2008. Status of the Red Knot (Calidris canutus rufa) in
the Western Hemisphere. Studies in Avian Biology, No. 36. Cooper Ornithological Society.
Niles, L. J., J. Burger, R. R. Porter, A. D. Dey, C. D. T. Minton, P. M. Gonzalez, A. J. Baker,
J. W. Fox and C. Gordon. 2010. First results using light level geolocators to track Red Knots
in the Western Hemisphere show rapid and long intercontinental flights and new details of
migration pathways. Wader Study Group Bull. 117(2):123-130.
Date researched: 2/9/2012
Last researched by: Dey
Melanerpes erythrocephalus
Red-headed Woodpecker
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 3.1 - 8.5 ha while wintering territories range from 0.05 - 1 ha (Smith et al.
2000). The breeding occurrence area was chosen based upon the upper limit breeding territory size of 7 ha.
The non-breeding occurrence area was based upon the upper limit wintering territory size of 0.6 ha and
increased because this species will travel beyond its territory to forage (Smith et al. 2000).
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4824 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 75 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4827 N/A Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4828 N/A Breeding Sighting 150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Smith, K. G., J. H. Withgott, and P. G. Rodewald. 2000. Red-headed Woodpecker
(Melanerpes erythrocephalus). In The Birds of North America, No. 518 (A. Poole and F. Gill,
eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Little is known about breeding territories. In Florida, size of summer territories (3.1-8.5 ha) larger
than in winter, with overlap between adjacent territories, although overlap areas not used as much as
exclusive portion
Little information on habitat use in migration. Forages on living oak, maple (Acer), and hickory
(Carya) trees and dead trees during spring in Illinois. Uses shelterbelts in spring migration on Great
Plains. Forms loose flocks in fall in Florida that seek mast or fruit-bearing trees in orchards, oak
hammocks, and urban areas where mature oaks or fruit trees are plentiful. Some suggest that species
use forest edges more in fall.
Winter habitat in north, found in mature stands of forest, particularly oak forests; oak-hickory,
maple, ash (Fraxinus), or beech woodlands; and old oak woodlots containing overmature trees with
many cavities and dead. In south, pine and pine-oak areas. Favors areas with numerous standing
snags (dri-ki) resulting from flooding or girdling by beavers, beaver ponds, marshes, and swamps.
Also favored elm trees that had succumbed to fungal Dutch elm disease. Presence of mast as a
winter food has long been recognized as single most important factor determining winter
distribution in northern part of range, leading to the rule, "No mast, no redheads". A positive
relationship existed between numbers and acorn abundance in most counties studied in Missouri
and large acorn-bearing oaks in Illinois, suggesting that species may respond to acorn abundance on
a local scale, but this relationship remains unstudied.
Winter territories can be small; e.g., 0.05 ha ± 0.03 SD (n = 8) for adults and 0.03 ha ± 0.03 (n = 6)
for juveniles, but more typically 0.17 ha ± 0.04 SE (n = 20) to 0.38 ha ±0.04 (n = 18), to 0.5-0.6 ha
to as large as 1 ha. ). Acorns often gathered from beyond territory, and several individuals may be
seen gathering acorns at same source, such that individuals defend their storage sites, not source of
acorns.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Buteo lineatus
Red-shouldered Hawk
Justification:
According to the scientific literature home range sizes for eastern populations of red-shouldered hawks’ are
highly variable, both seasonally and by sex. Males generally have larger territories than females and both
sexes have larger territories during the non-breeding season than during the breeding season (Crocoll 1994).
Crocoll, 1994, reported that the average breeding season home range of eastern populations varied from 108.9
ha to 339 ha. The mean breeding season home range being 224 ha, an area equivalent to a circle having a 0.71
km radius. ENSP selected a slightly larger occurrence area boundary for red-shouldered hawks to account for
the larger territory size used by the birds during the non-breeding season.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4830 N/A Nest 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4831 N/A Breeding Sighting 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4836 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Crocoll, S.T. Red-shouldered hawk. The Birds of North America, No. 107, 1994. The
Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia.
Home range of red-shouldered hawk varies from 108.9 ha to 339 ha in eastern populations during
the breeding season, with a computed average of 224 ha.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Schantz
Sterna dougallii dougalli
Roseate Tern
Justification:
Where the literature on commuting distance includes several studies, there can be wide variability in the
mean commuting distances between different studies. When such was the case, we either averaged the
reported mean commuting distances or used the information from the study with a large sample size or from
an area most ecologically similar to New Jersey. We then doubled this figure.
The Birds of North America reports that there is inadequate data concerning commuting distances for roseate
terns (Gochfeld et al. 1998). The information that is available varies widely. In Massachusetts, many roseate
terns were observed to forage within 300 m of the colony (Gochfeld et al. 1998). In Puerto Rico, most terns
fed within 2 km of the colony and often within 200 m (Shealer and Burger 1995). Other reports indicate that
terns feed at maximum distances of 16- 30 km from nesting colonies (Gochfeld et al. 1998, Heinemann 1992,
Nisbet and Spendalow 1999). NatureServe recommends a minimum inferred extent of 2 km, noting that this
is a conservative estimate (NatureServe 2006). We apply a 4.8 km buffer around the colony to protect
foraging areas.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4877 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4878 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4879 Breeding Foraging 3 mile
radii of
open
water/erme
rgent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4880 Breeding Nesting Colony 50 meter
radii
around
nest/colon
y
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
4881 Breeding Suspected Breeding
Location
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4882 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
Gochfeld, M., J. Burger, and I. C. T. Nisbet. 1998. Roseate Tern (Sterna dougallii). In The
Birds of North America, No. 370 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America,
Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
BNA reports that inadequate information exists for commuting distances of roseate terns. They
report that roseate terns may forage up to 30 km from breeding colonies. In Massachusetts, many
terns foraged within 300m of the colony.
Heinemann, D. 1992. Foraging ecology of roseate terns breeding on Bird Island, Buzzards
Bay, Massachusetts. Report to USFWS, Newton Corner, MA. 54 pp.
In Massachusetts, researchers observed foraging flights up to 16km.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].
Version 6.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: June 12, 2007 )
The breeding inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 2 km. The
authors note that this is a conservative estimate.
Nisbet, I.C.T., Spendalow, J.A. 1999. Contribution to research to management and recovery
of the Roseate Tern: review of a twelve-year project. Waterbirds 22(2): 239-252.
During this twelve year study, authors report foraging commutes up to 25 km away.
Shealer D.A., J. Burger 1995. Comparative foraging success between adult and one-year-old
Roseate and Sandwich Terns. Colonial Waterbirds 18: 93-99.
At Culebra and other Puerto Rican islands, roseate terns fed primarily within 2 km of colony, and
often within 200 m.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davis
Ammodramus caudacutus
Saltmarsh Sparrow
Justification:
Saltmarsh sharp-tailed sparrows are not territorial and have overlapping home ranges that range from 1.2 - 5.7
ha for males and 0.4 - 3.1 ha for females. However, females may travel >250 meters from the nest to forage.
Based upon the distance traveled to find food for young, a breeding occurrence area of 250 meters is
recommended for this species. Based upon the non-territorial behavior and the upper limit of the area needed
to forage (5 ha), an occurrence area of 125 meters was chosen for migrant and wintering individuals.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5579 N/A Urban Nest 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5580 N/A Breeding Sighting 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5585 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 125 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5586 N/A Nest 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Greenlaw, J. S. and J. D. Rising. 1994. Sharp-tailed Sparrow (Ammodramus caudacutus). In
The Birds of North America, No. 112 (A. Poole and F. Gill, Eds.). Philadelphia: The Academy
of Natural Sciences; Washington, D.C.: The American Ornithologists’ Union.
Along the Atlantic Coast south of New Brunswick, breeds in salt marshes where smooth cordgrass,
saltmeadow grass, and blackgrass are bordered by cattail, reed (Phragmites sp.), and marsh elder.
Forages on ground in dense grasses of marshes or wet meadows (e.g., cordgrass, blackgrass, and
saltmeadow grass in salt marshes), ditch margins, edges of shallow pools and mud pannes, patches
of wrack, and bay intertidal. Breeding females often forage close to nest but may fly long distances
from nest. Females may search for food > 250 m from nest (mean = 60.7 ± 3.3 [SE], n = 201).
Breeding males are non-territorial and have large, overlapping home ranges. In New Jersey, male
home ranges estimated between 1.2 and 1.6 ha; in coastal New York, mean size 4.3 ha (3.0-5.7 ha).
Females occupy breeding home ranges smaller than those of males; e.g., a mean of 1.1 ha (0.4-3.1
ha) in New York and an estimated average female home range size as 0.4 ha in New Jersey.
Migrants along the Atlantic coast are restricted to coastal marshes, with a few subcoastal and inland
records from freshwater marshes. Most of the Atlantic Coast population winters in coastal cordgrass
marshes, occasionally in cattail; birds often leave tidal marshes only when forced out by high tides,
when they may become concentrated along shoreline. Winter foraging is also on the ground in dense
grass in marshes, at edges of ponds or pools, and sometimes on floating vegetation. In fall, favors
areas of tall, seed-bearing cordgrass along channels and bay margins. Along mid-Atlantic Coast
congregate in loose feeding groups in tall, seed-bearing cordgrass; groups usually consist of 10-40
individuals, but larger (> 100 birds) and smaller groups (even solitary individuals) commonly occur.
Wintering birds along se. Atlantic Coast also form loose feeding groups.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Calidris alba
Sanderling
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from information obtained through
ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the occurrence area
polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar to those found
in NJ. For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project maps, insufficient information
exists in the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In these cases, a default
occurrence area (71.25 meter radius) is applied to take into account location uncertainty. These occurrence
areas are used to value patches of habitat.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5587 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 3/2/2011
Last researched by: Dey
Passerculus sandwichensis
Savannah Sparrow
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 0.05 - 1.25 ha (Swanson 1998, Wheelwright and Rising 1993). The breeding
occurrence area was selected based upon the upper limit of the territory range and increased to accommodate
shifting territories for second nesting attempts and nomadic behavior of juveniles (Wheelwright and Rising
1993). No minimum patch size was selected based upon evidence that the species can occupy areas < 2 ha
(Swanson 1998). Non-breeding savannah sparrows are not listed in New Jersey so no non-breeding
occurrence area was assigned.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4839 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4840 N/A Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4843 N/A Breeding Sighting 150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Mitchell, L. R., C. R. Smith and R. A. Malecki, R. A. 2000. Ecology of grassland breeding
birds in the northeastern US - a literature review with recommendations for management.
USGS, BRD, NY Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, DNR, Cornell University,
Ithaca, NY 14853-3011. September 2000.
Maine had 50% incidence at 10 ha and that 5-10 ha is minimum size for birds to breed (see Vickery
et al. 1994 below). New York had minimum area of 11.7 ha and mean patch size of 53.6 ha.
Another study in New York had 97% incidence in areas 20 ha and larger, 88% incidence in 10-20
ha patches, 63% incidence in 5-10 ha patches, and 28% incidence in 3-5 ha patches. Missouri had
minimum areas of 1-10 ha, and Illinois 10-30 ha.
Swanson, D. A. 1998 (revised 2002). Effects of management practice on grassland birds:
Savannah Sparrow. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. 30 pages.
Territories range from 0.05 - 1.25 ha and they may occupy areas < 5 ha in size. In Illinois, none
occurred in areas < 10 ha and 50% incidence at 40 ha.
Vickery, P. D., M. L. Hunter, Jr. and S. M. Melvin. 1994. Effects of habitat area on the
distribution of grassland birds in Maine. Conservation Biology 8(4): 1087-1097.
In Maine, 50% incidence for SAVS was reached at 10 ha.
Wheelwright, N. T. and J. D. Rising. 1993. Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis).
In The Birds of North America, No. 45 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North
America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Breeding territories vary in size between regions, habitats, seasons, and years. Mean size or range:
Michigan, 0.11 ha, Wisconsin, 0.53 - 0.86 ha, coastal Nova Scotia, 0.17 ha, Kent Is., NB, 0.05 -
0.30 ha (NTW); Sable Is., NS 0.38 - 0.53 ha in densely vegetated habitat, 1.09 - 1.25 ha in sparse
habitat. Territory diameter 60 m in Quebec. Territories tend to expand during the breeding season
and females will renest 0.5 - 31 meters from original nest (19m upper conf. limit), 26.7 m in
Michigan, range from 7 - 42 m in Nova Scotia. Females are also territorial and are aggressive up to
20 m from nest. Parents will drop fecal sacs 10 - 50 m away from nest. Juveniles form loose flocks
after a month post-fledging and wander 500 - 1000 meters daily while foraging.
Stopover habitat includes open fields, roadsides, dune vegetation, coastal marshes, edges of sewage
ponds and other ponds in open country; rarely found in open woodlands. Winter habitat includes
cultivated fields, pastures, golf courses, roadsides, dumps, dune grass, and salt marshes. P. s.
rostratus and apparently other salt marsh populations, though generally wintering in salt marshes,
can be found in a variety of open habitats, including sparsely vegetated habitats on xeric islands.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Cistothorus platensis
Sedge Wren
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 0.12 to 3.4 ha and average 3.4 ha in Illinois (Dechant et al. 1998, Herkert et
al. 2001). The breeding occurrence area was chosen based upon the average territory size in Illinois and
increased to account for shifting territories (Herkert et al 2001). Little is known about the non-breeding
territories, so the default occurrence area was chosen for migrant and wintering individuals.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4970 N/A Breeding Sighting 150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4973 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4976 N/A Nest 150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Dechant, J. A., M. L. Sondreal, D. H. Johnson, L. D. Igl, C. M. Goldade, B. D. Parkin, and B.
R. Euliss. 1998 (revised 2002). Effects of management practice on grassland birds: Sedge
Wren. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. 17 pages.
In Illinois, area was not important in predictive occurrence and were present in areas < 10 ha.
Minnesota territories average 0.2 ha, Illinois territories were 3.4 ha.
Herkert, J. R., D. E. Kroodsma, and J. P. Gibbs. 2001. Sedge Wren (Cistothorus platensis). In
The Birds of North America, No. 582 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America,
Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Territory boundaries are fluid throughout nesting season, and males may shift activity and defend
new areas as season progresses. Territory size for 12 males in Minnesota averaged 1,780 m2 (range
1,274-3,559) (0.178 ha).
Migratory stopover habitats closely resemble preferred breeding habitats, but also occasionally
found in other habitats including mesic grasslands; salt marshes; and alfalfa, clover, and rye fields
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Calidris pusilla
Semipalmated Sandpiper
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from information obtained through
ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the occurrence area
polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar to those found
in NJ. For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project maps, insufficient information
exists in the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In these cases, a default
occurrence area (71.25 meter radius) is applied to take into account location uncertainty. These occurrence
areas are used to value patches of habitat.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6703 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 3/2/2011
Last researched by: Dey
Accipiter striatus
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Justification:
There are few studies available (summarized in Birds of North America). Two studies tracked four
individuals, resulting in home ranges of 90-140 ha for females and 120-270 ha for males. Those areas
convert to radii ranging 0.28-0.44 km (females) and 0.38-0.85 km (males). Another study tracked a pair in
Utah that ranged in an area with a 0.80 km radius.
Wintering sharp-shinneds had slightly larger ranges in a NC study. Three tracked males had a mean range of
2.5 km2 (mean of 250 ha, radius=0.79 km), while three tracked females had a mean range of 2.8 km2 (mean
of 280 ha, radius=0.88 km).
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5602 N/A Nest 800 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5607 N/A Breeding Sighting 800 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5609 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 800 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
Bildstein, K. L., and K. Meyer. 2000. Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus). In The Birds
of North America, No. 482 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc.,
Philadelphia, PA.
N/A
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Clark
Asio flammeus
Short-eared Owl
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from information obtained through
ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the occurrence area
polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar to those found
in NJ. For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project maps, insufficient information
exists in the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In these cases, a default
occurrence area (71.25 meter radius) is applied to take into account location uncertainty. These occurrence
areas are used to value patches of habitat.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4964 N/A Nest 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4966 N/A Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4968 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Clark
Egretta thula
Snowy Egret
Justification:
Nesting area is defined by the area the birds actually use, as these birds do not defend a territory except
immediately around their individual nests. The boundaries of the colony are defined as much by social
attraction phenomenon and by habitat suitability. Consequently there is now immediately apparent
justification for buffering the mapped extent of a nesting area. Where the mapped extent of a colony was
available it was used. Where the mapped extent was not available the default seconds precision circle was
used around the recorded nesting location point.
ENSP reviewed the literature regarding commuting distance for colonial nesting long-legged wading birds
which fairly consistently indicates that the importance of suitable foraging habitat decreases with the distance
from the nesting area (e.g. Dowd and Flake 1985, Custer et al. 2004, Kelly et al 1993, Thompson 1978). This
is not surprising considering the energy demands of long commutes and the fact that, all other things being
equal, if suitable foraging habitat is randomly distributed within the possible foraging range, simple geometry
would argue that availability would increase with the square of the distance from the colony. Consequently, a
particular type of wetland or riparian habitat is more critical if it is located close to a nesting area than a
similar area located near the edge of the energetically feasible foraging range from the colony. It would
therefore be unjustifiable to use the maximum foraging distance figures to define all potential foraging
habitat as critical foraging habitat for a particular nesting colony. Conversely, using an average foraging
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5610 Breeding Nesting Colony 71.25
Meter
Buffer
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
5611 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5612 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
5613 Breeding Roosting Area 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5614 Breeding Foraging 9.8 mile
radii of
open
water/emer
gent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5615 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
distance figure may under-include suitable habitat by omitting some foraging areas that are important because
they provide particularly rich and easily exploited feeding habitat. Further, research (Custer et al. 2004)
indicates that longer commuting distances are more frequent during high-demand and demographically
critical nestling rearing period. Where the literature on commuting distance includes several studies, there can
be wide variability in the mean commuting distances between different studies. When such was the case, we
either averaged the reported mean commuting distances or used the information from the study with a large
sample size or from an area most ecologically similar to New Jersey. We then doubled this figure.
Research in North Carolina found that 84% of breeding long-legged waterbirds flew to foraging areas, which
is why habitat outside the vicinity of the colony must be valued as crucial to the success of the colony (Custer
and Osborn 1978). A study in Florida at Lake Okeechobee found snowy egrets flew an average of 2.8 km
from colonies to foraging areas and the maximum flight recorded was 5 kilometers (Smith 1995). Another
study in Florida, in Everglades National Park, found that over the course of 2 field seasons, snowy egrets flew
an average of 13km, with a maximum recorded distance of 31.5 km (Strong 1997). NatureServe recommends
a minimum inferred extent of 3 km and justifies it by noting a low mean foraging range size for this group
(NatureServe 2006). We apply a 15.8 km radius around a colony to protect foraging areas.
({13km +2.8 km}/2 = 7.9km *2 = 15.8km)
Literature:
Custer, C.M., S.A. Suarez, D.A. Olsen. 2004. Feeding habitat characteristics of the Great Blue
Heron and Great Egret nesting along the Upper Mississippi River, 1995-1998. Waterbirds
27(4): 454-68.
The majority of the herons in this study fed <5 km from the nesting site, and avoided areas > 10 km
away. They flew farther to sites during the brood-rearing period than during incubation. Only 10%
of the feeding flights ended at a location where another heron was present, indicating that they
prefer to feed alone.
Custer, T., R. Osborn. 1978. Feeding habitat use by colonially-breeding herons, egrets, and
ibises in North Carolina. Auk 95: 733-743.
In North Carolina, 84% of breeding individuals flew to tidal foraging habitat. They generally prefer
brackish/marine habitats with relatively shallow water.
Dowd and Flake. 1985. Foraging habits and movements of nesting Great Blue Heron in
prairie river ecosystem, South Dakota. Journal of Field ornithology 56: 377-387.
A study in South Dakota found that the average distance that great blues flew from their colony to a
foraging site was 3.1 km, and the maximum observed distance was 24.4 km. Eighty-five percent of
the herons in the study fed within 4 km of the colony.
Kelly J. P., H. M. Pratt, P. L. Greene. 1993. The distribution, reproductive success, and
habitat characteristics of heron and egret breeding colonies in the San Francisco Bay area.
Colonial Waterbirds. 16: 18-27.
> 95% of great blue herons and >90% great egrets fed within 20 km of their colony.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].
Version 6.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: June 4, 2007 ).
The breeding inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 3 km. For
the breeding season, this figure is based on a low mean foraging range size for this group.
Smith, J. P. 1995. Foraging flights and habitat use of nesting wading birds (Ciconiiformes) at
Lake Okeechobee, Florida. Colonial Waterbirds 18 (2): 139-158.
Snowy egrets at Lake Okeechobee, FL flew an average of 2.8 km from colonies to foraging areas in
vicinity of Lake Okeechobee, FL. The maximum flight recorded was 5 kilometers. High water
increased foraging flight distances for individuals.
Strong, A.M. 1997. Hydrological constraints of the Tricolored Heron and Snowy Egret
resource use. Condor 99(4): 894-905.
A study in Everglades National Park, FL found that 95% of all the foraging locations (for both
species) were located within 22 km of a nesting colony (mean flight distance + 2 SD). In 1987,
mean distance flown to foraging location was 12.9 km + 4.8 km (n=68) and in 1988 it was 13.1 km
+ 6.3 km (n=156). The maximum distance traveled by a Snowy egret was 31.5 km.
Thompson. 1978. Feeding areas of Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets nesting in the
floodplain of the upper Mississippi River. Proc. Colonial Waterbird Group. 2: 202-13.
In central Minnesota the average distance that the herons flew from the colony to a foraging area
was 6.5 km, and the maximum observed was 20.4 km. Fifty-three percent of the herons in the study
fed within 4 km of the colony.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davis
Egretta tricolor
Tricolored Heron
Justification:
Nesting area is defined by the area the birds actually use, as these birds do not defend a territory except
immediately around their individual nests. The boundaries of the colony are defined as much by social
attraction phenomenon and by habitat suitability. Consequently there is now immediately apparent
justification for buffering the mapped extent of a nesting area. Where the mapped extent of a colony was
available it was used. Where the mapped extent was not available the default seconds precision circle was
used around the recorded nesting location point.
ENSP reviewed the literature regarding commuting distance for colonial nesting long-legged wading birds
which fairly consistently indicates that the importance of suitable foraging habitat decreases with the distance
from the nesting area (e.g. Dowd and Flake 1985, Custer et al. 2004, Kelly et al 1993, Thompson 1978). This
is not surprising considering the energy demands of long commutes and the fact that, all other things being
equal, if suitable foraging habitat is randomly distributed within the possible foraging range, simple geometry
would argue that availability would increase with the square of the distance from the colony. Consequently, a
particular type of wetland or riparian habitat is more critical if it is located close to a nesting area than a
similar area located near the edge of the energetically feasible foraging range from the colony. It would
therefore be unjustifiable to use the maximum foraging distance figures to define all potential foraging
habitat as critical foraging habitat for a particular nesting colony. Conversely, using an average foraging
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5627 Breeding Nesting Colony 90 meter
radii
around
colony
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
5628 Breeding Foraging 9.0 mile
radii of
open
water/emer
gent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5629 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5630 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5631 Breeding Roosting Area 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5632 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
distance figure may under-include suitable habitat by omitting some foraging areas that are important because
they provide particularly rich and easily exploited feeding habitat. Further, research (Custer et al. 2004)
indicates that longer commuting distances are more frequent during high-demand and demographically
critical nestling rearing period. Where the literature on commuting distance includes several studies, there can
be wide variability in the mean commuting distances between different studies. When such was the case, we
either averaged the reported mean commuting distances or used the information from the study with a large
sample size or from an area most ecologically similar to New Jersey. We then doubled this figure.
Research in North Carolina found that 84% of breeding long-legged waterbirds flew to foraging areas, which
is why habitat outside the vicinity of the colony must be valued as crucial to the success of the colony (Custer
and Osborn 1978). In the Florida Everglades tricolored herons traveled an average of 5.6 km to forage, with a
maximum reported distance of 25km (Bancroft, et al 1988). A different study in the Everglades found that
over the course of three years tricolored herons traveled an average distance of 8.9 km, with a yearly average
ranging from 5.4 km to 12.8 km. The range was hypothesized to be a result of varying water level
fluctuations. The maximum distance traveled in this study was 27 km and 95% of the birds traveled within 22
km of their colony (Strong 1997). NatureServe recommends a minimum inferred extent of 3 km and justifies
it by noting a low mean foraging range size for this group (NatureServe 2006). We apply a 14.5 km radius
around a colony to protect foraging areas.
Literature:
Bancroft, G.T., S. D. Jewell, A. M. Strong. 1988. Foraging habitat of Egretta herons relative to
stage in the nest cycle and water conditions. Third Annual Report. South Florida Water
Management District, West Palm Beach, FL.
In the Florida Everglades foraging habitat was constrained to a mean foraging radius of 5.6 km ±
6.0 km SD (n=265). The maximum foraging commute recorded was 25 km.
Custer, C.M., S.A. Suarez, D.A. Olsen. 2004. Feeding habitat characteristics of the Great Blue
Heron and Great Egret nesting along the Upper Mississippi River, 1995-1998. Waterbirds
27(4): 454-68.
The majority of the herons in this study fed <5 km from the nesting site, and avoided areas > 10 km
away. They flew farther to sites during the brood-rearing period than during incubation. Only 10%
of the feeding flights ended at a location where another heron was present, indicating that they
prefer to feed alone.
Dowd and Flake. 1985. Foraging habits and movements of nesting Great Blue Heron in
prairie river ecosystem, South Dakota. Journal of Field ornithology 56: 377-87.
A study in South Dakota found that the average distance that great blues flew from their colony to a
foraging site was 3.1 km, and the maximum observed distance was 24.4 km. Eighty-five percent of
the herons in the study fed within 4 km of the colony.
Kelly J. P., H. M. Pratt, P. L. Greene. 1993. The distribution, reproductive success, and
habitat characteristics of heron and egret breeding colonies in the San Francisco Bay area.
Colonial Waterbirds. 16: 18-27.
> 95% of great blue herons and >90% great egrets fed within 20 km of their colony.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].
Version 6.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: June 4, 2007 ).
The breeding inferred minimum extent of habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 3 km. For
the breeding season, this figure is based on a low mean foraging range size for this group.
Strong, A.M. 1997. Hydrological constraints of the Tricolored Heron and Snowy Egret
resource use. The Condor 99(4): 894-905.
A study in Everglades National Park, FL found that 95% of all the foraging locations (for both
species) were located within 22 km of a nesting colony (mean flight distance + 2 SD). In 1987,
mean distance flown to foraging location was 12.8km + 5.8 km (n=39), in 1988 it was 8.6 km + 4.3
km (n=91) and in 1989 it was 5.4 km + 3.9 km (n=135). The fluctuation in distance traveled may be
due to the way yearly fluctuations in water level influence availability of foraging habitat. The
maximum distance traveled by a tricolored heron was 27 km.
Thompson. 1978. Feeding areas of Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets nesting in the
floodplain of the upper Mississippi River. Proc. Colonial Waterbird Group. 2: 202-213.
In central Minnesota the average distance that the herons flew from the colony to a foraging area
was 6.5 km, and the maximum observed was 20.4 km. Fifty-three percent of the herons in the study
fed within 4 km of the colony.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davis
Bartramia longicauda
Upland Sandpiper
Justification:
Upland sandpipers are area-sensitive grassland birds and sensitive to habitat fragmentation. Breeding territory
sizes differ between males and females and average 8 ha for males and 85.6 ha for females (Dechant et al.
1999, Houston and Bowen 2001). This species requires large areas of a mosaic of grassland and open habitats
for breeding and rearing young. Minimum patch sizes varied greatly from 26 to 50 ha (Mitchell et al. 2000,
Vickery et al. 1994). The minimum patch size of 26 ha reported was located closest to New Jersey than others
reported. The breeding occurrence area chosen was based on the female territory size of 85.6 ha and
increased because females will travel an average 869 m (and up to 3,275 m) from the nest as well as to
incorporate post-fledging habitat (Houston and Bowen 2001). However, due to the area sensitivity of the
species, only patches 25 ha and greater should be valued for breeding individuals of this species.
Little is known about the stopover habitat use of migratory upland sandpipers. Therefore, the migrant
occurrence area was chosen based upon evidence that upland sandpipers travel a far distance to forage
(Houston and Bowen 2001)
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4948 Breeding Breeding Sighting 1 km
Buffer,
min. patch
25 ha
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4949 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
1 km
Buffer,
min. patch
25 ha
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4950 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Dechant, J. A., M. F. Dinkins, D. H. Johnson, L. D. Igl, C. M. Goldade, B. D. Parkin, and B. R.
Euliss. 1999 (revised 2002). Effects of management practice on grassland birds: Upland
Sandpiper. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. 34 pages.
In Wisconsin territory size was 8 - 12 ha. Illinois had minimum area requirements of 30 ha,
southwest Missouri 75 ha, Nebraska had 50% incidence at 50 - 61 ha, and Maine had 50%
incidence at 200 ha (see Vickery et al. below).
Houston, C. S. and D. E. Bowen, Jr. 2001. Upland Sandpiper (Bartramia longicauda). In The
Birds of North America, No. 580 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America,
Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Nests in loose colonies with little or no evidence of territoriality. Nesting territories were usually
grouped. Courtship flight displays 200 - 400 m in diameter. North Dakota had an annual nesting
density of 9.8 – 21.8 nests per 100 ha with a mean of 12.4 nests per 100 ha (1 nest per 8 ha).
Minnesota had fledglings move 300 m and 500 m from the nest. Illinois also had recent fledglings
fly 170 - 410 m from the nest. Migratory stopover habitat in Texas includes plowed fields, rarely
bottomlands. Females have large home ranges (85.6 ha) and can move and average 869 m from the
nest. Males have smaller home ranges (8.5 ha).
Stopped at dry salt-hay marshes in New Jersey in summer and autumn, and in harvested corn (Zea
mays) and agave (Agave sp.) fields and flooded acacia (Acacia sp.) and sorghum (Sorghum vulgar)
near Guadalajara, Mexico (O. Reyna pers. comm.). Along Manu River in sw. Peru, from 21 Aug
through 5 Nov, used beach habitats overgrown with Tessaria and weeds.
Mitchell, L. R., C. R. Smith and R. A. Malecki, R. A. 2000. Ecology of grassland breeding
birds in the northeastern US - a literature review with recommendations for management.
USGS, BRD, NY Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, DNR, Cornell University,
Ithaca, NY 14853-3011. September 2000.
A study in the northeastern United States showed minimum habitat requirement to be at least 100 ha
but found 50% incidence at 30 - 40 ha. Two other studies in New York show minimum habitat
requirements to be 26 ha and 46 ha. In St Lawrence River, habitat size ranged from 160 - 496 ha
with a mean of 375 ha. In the Midwest, 50% incidence was found between 30 and 100 ha.
Vickery, P. D., M. L. Hunter, Jr. and S. M. Melvin. 1994. Effects of habitat area on the
distribution of grassland birds in Maine. Conservation Biology 8(4): 1087-1097.
In Maine: Upland sandpipers have the greatest area requirements of all 10 species in study. They
were rare on sites less than 50 ha and increased steadily with area. Reached 50% incidence at 200
ha. Territories are > 8 ha.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Catharus fuscescens
Veery
Justification:
The breeding occurrence area was chosen based upon the upper limit of the mean territory size mentioned
below (Bevier et al.), which came to 2.21 ha. The nonbreeding population is listed as stable in NJ, so the
default occurrence area was chosen and will not be included in the Landscape Project.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5634 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
5637 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
85 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5638 Breeding Breeding Sighting 85 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Bevier, L., A. F. Poole, and W. Moskoff. (2004). Veery (Catharus fuscescens). The Birds of
North America Online. (A. Poole, Ed.) Ithaca: Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology; Retrieved
from The Birds of North American Online database:
http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/BNA/account/Veery/.
Prefers disturbed forest, probably because of denser understory not found in undisturbed forests. In
northern hardwood forests, Veery bred in 77% of disturbed and successional habitats available but
in only 18% of mature undisturbed habitats available. In mature woodlands, moisture regime is
chief factor in habitat selection, more than twice as important as herb cover. Shrub cover is chief
vegetative consideration in habitat selection - probably because shrubs provide safe nest sites.
In Middle Atlantic states requires forests of 20 ha for 50% probability of occurrence. In Illinois, of
22 forest patches in which known to breed, only 2 smaller than 100 ha.; average forest size of
breeding area 309 ha. In red maple swamps of s. Rhode Island, while occurring in swamps as small
as 1 ha, regional forest abundance may be more critical determinant of presence and abundance than
swamp size.
Territories range from 0.10 ha to a few hectares. In Ontario (n = 61), average size of territory 0.25
ha; in s. Quebec (sugar maple/hemlock stand), 0.5 ha (A. Cyr unpubl.). In Hudson Valley,
occasionally build nests within 15-20 m of each other within large, overlapping territories.
Rosenberg, K., R. Hames, R. Rohrbaugh, S. Barker Swarthout, J. Lowe, and A. Dhondt.
2003. A land manager’s guide to improving habitat for forest thrushes. The Cornell Lab of
Ornithology.
Veeries are area sensitive and intolerant of forest fragmentation even though they use disturbed
habitats. Habitat with highest suitability consists of wet areas in 400 ha deciduous or mixed forests
with 70% canopy closure. They also use coniferous and hemlock forests. The amount of area
needed is related to the amount of fragmentation in the area. They can tolerate smaller fragments of
1 - 8 ha.
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Pooecetes gramineus
Vesper Sparrow
Justification:
Vesper breeding territories range from 0.29 - 8.19 ha in patches 5+ ha in size (Dechant et al. 2000, Jones and
Cornerly 2002). The breeding occurrence area was selected based upon the Michigan upper limit territory
size. The non-breeding occurrence area was chosen based upon the average winter home range size (Jones
and Cornely 2002).
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4852 N/A Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4853 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4854 N/A Breeding Sighting 150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Dechant, J. A., M. F. Dinkins, D. H. Johnson, L. D. Igl, C. M. Goldade, B. D. Parkin, and B. R.
Euliss. 2000 (revised 2002). Effects of management practice on grassland birds: Vesper
Sparrow. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. 41 pages.
Montana territories ranged from 0.29 - 3 ha and an average of 1.65 ha. Corn and soybean fields in
Iowa had territories ranging from 1.6 - 8 ha and an average of 3 ha. Another Iowa study had
territories ranging from 1.8 - 3.2 ha and averaging 2.3 ha. Michigan territories in a 5.6-ha field
averaged 0.48 - 0.72 ha. Illinois tallgrass prairies contained vespers in small sites < 10 ha but not
large sites (650 ha). Maine found vesper abundance to be positively correlated with area and 50%
incidence at 20 ha.
Jones, S. L. and J. E. Cornely. 2002. Vesper Sparrow (Pooecetes gramineus). In The Birds of
North America, No. 624 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc.,
Philadelphia, PA.
In Ohio, used open areas from 5 – 15 ha. Breeding territory size ranges from 0.29 – 8.19 ha. In
Michigan, territories averaged 2.59 ha, but open field territories averaged 1.53 ha ± 0.33 SD and
1.03 ha ± 0.77 SD in fields with standing dead trees.
Stopover habitat consists of pastures and weeds bordering cultivated fields and roadsides,
hedgerows, and barren to overgrown fields. Throughout much of range, commonly found near
grassy or weedy ditches and fencerows, since fields are still barren upon arrival in early spring.
Wintering habitat in e. U.S. consists of patches of cleared and natural openings in forest land. On
wintering range, home range of 142 m (n = 37) average for 3 yr; annual variation in size positively
correlated to previous summer’s rainfall (Gordon 2000).
Mitchell, L. R., C. R. Smith and R. A. Malecki, R. A. 2000. Ecology of grassland breeding
birds in the northeastern US - a literature review with recommendations for management.
USGS, BRD, NY Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, DNR, Cornell University,
Ithaca, NY 14853-3011. September 2000.
Maine had 38 pairs in a 210-ha patch and 50% incidence at 20 ha (see Vickery et al. 1994 below).
Missouri had a range of patch size from 10 - 100 ha. Illinois had minimum patch size of 10 ha. No
information on territory size was provided.
Vickery, P. D., M. L. Hunter, Jr. and S. M. Melvin. 1994. Effects of habitat area on the
distribution of grassland birds in Maine. Conservation Biology 8(4): 1087-1097.
In Maine, 50% incidence for vespers were reached at 20 ha.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Numenius phaeopus
Whimbrel
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from information obtained through
ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the occurrence area
polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar to those found
in NJ. For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project maps, insufficient information
exists in the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In these cases, a default
occurrence area (71.25 meter radius) is applied to take into account location uncertainty. These occurrence
areas are used to value patches of habitat.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5645 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 3/2/2011
Last researched by: Dey
Caprimulgus vociferus
Whip-poor-will
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 2.8 - 11.1 ha with an average 5.1 ha. The breeding occurrence area was
chosen based upon the upper limit of the breeding territories (10 ha). The nonbreeding population is
unknown in NJ, so the default buffer was chosen and will not be used in the Landscape Project.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5646 Breeding Breeding Sighting 175 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5649 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5651 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
175 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Cink, C. L. 2002. Whip-poor-will (Caprimulgus vociferus). In The Birds of North America,
No. 620 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Breeds in dry deciduous or mixed forests with little or no underbrush throughout most of its range.
Degree of openness in forest understory appears to be more important than forest composition. In
New York State, widespread in northern hardwood forests of Hudson Valley and low-elevation
forests surrounding the Adirondacks, mainly white pine and oak-northern hardwoods or aspen-gray
birch-paper birch forests. Absent, however, from large, heavily forested areas of the Adirondacks
and Catskills above 305 m. Prefers dry woodland such as pitch pine-scrub oak barrens on Long I.
and deciduous woods inland. Prefers drier oak-hickory forests to beech-maple woods in upstate
New York, yet numerous individuals found in wet woods at edge of Black Creek marshes in St.
Lawrence Co., NY. In W. Virginia, occurs in oak"hickory"white pine, or hardwood-hemlock forest
and sparingly in northern hardwoods (red maple, American beech, and yellow birch) forest, but not
in pure red spruce. Appears to be missing from many areas of dense uninterrupted forest. Common
in open and partially open pitch pine-scrub oak habitat on Cape Cod, but dramatically fewer singing
in black oak-scarlet oak-pitch pine habitat along glacial moraines with closed canopy; decreased
light here may influence foraging success. In the Sand Ridge State Forest of Illinois, species most
common in mixed pine-oak habitats, followed by oak-dominated deciduous stands, and least
abundant in jack pine plantations. In Kentucky, breeders found in a variety of semiopen habitats, in-
cluding rural farmland, power-line and roadway corridors, clearcut and selectively logged forest, old
fields, and reclaimed surface mines.
Shade, proximity to open areas for foraging, and fairly sparse ground cover are key elements of
habitat. Although many authors suggest this preference, few data on stage of succession preferred,
except that early is preferred to late. Species absent from areas where forest canopy is extensive and
closed. No data on forest structure and size. Minimum forest plot size needed to sustain a pair is
unknown, but small isolated woodlots in agricultural n.-central Maryland provide poor Whip-poor-
will habitat; species does not use this habitat. This suggests not only size of forest habitat used but
distance from larger forest tracts may be important.
Little information is known about migratory habitat. In U.S., many occur in same types of open
forests they breed in.
Whip-poor-wills travel large distances while foraging. In Kansas, size of territories varied from 2.8
to 11.1 ha (n = 3). In another study, most (52% of 26 birds) averaged 5.1 ha
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Troglodytes hiemalis
Winter Wren
Justification:
The breeding buffer was chosen based on the upper confidence limit of the mean habitat size for second
nesting attempts (3.3 ha ± 1.2 SD, n = 22) (Hejl et al. 2002), which calculates to 3.8 ha. Non-breeding wrens
are listed as stable in New Jersey, so the default buffer was chosen and will not be used in the Landscape
Project..
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5669 N/A Breeding Sighting 110 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5671 N/A Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
110 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5673 N/A Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
Hejl, S. J., J. A. Holmes, and D. E. Kroodsma. 2002. Winter Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes).
In The Birds of North America, No. 632 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North
America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Winter Wrens use all types of forest near water, especially old-growth structures (snags, downed
logs, and large trees) for nesting, foraging, and roosting. Clearcutting and some types of partial
logging reduce habitat suitability for the Winter Wren
Shape, size, density, and distribution of territories is influenced by habitat and topography.
Territories appear to be preferentially established along streams or other water sources, especially in
drier habitats, resulting in patchy distribution
Territory size varies both within and between habitats. In n. Idaho, breeding-territory size overall
ranged from 0.8 to 6 ha; 0.8-4.0 ha (mean 1.9 ha ± 0.9 SD; n = 17) within old-growth cedar-
hemlock forests and 1.0 to 3.3 in fragmented old growth (mean 2.1 ha ± 0.8 SD; n = 11)
interspersed with 4- to 11-yr-old clearcuts. Averaged 2.0 ha ± 0.9 SD (n = 28) for first nesting
attempts and 3.3 ha ± 1.2 SD (n = 22) for second attempts. Family groups used these areas after
nesting. In se. Alaska, territory size ranged from 0.7 to 4.8 ha, averaged 2.2 ha ± 0.3 SD, and
differed significantly among 3 sites (n = 15). In coastal western hemlock in British Columbia,
breeding-territory sizes ranged from 0.48 to 2.21 ha and averaged 1.38 ha ± 0.51 SD (n = 14) in
1979 and 1.23 ha ± 0.50 SD (n = 12) in 1980. In a separate study in similar habitat of British
Columbia, average size of territories over 3 yr ranged from 0.68 to 1.46 ha.
Conservative estimates of fall-territory size ranged from 0.42 to 1.31 ha and winter territory size
ranged from 0.14 to 1.45 ha. In Idaho, territories shifted between broods (SJH and JAH). In British
Columbia, territory shifts occurred at beginning of winter, at junction with breeding season, and
breeding/fall juncture.
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Hylocichla mustelina
Wood Thrush
Justification:
The breeding occurrence area was chosen based upon the median distance traveled from the nest by post-
fledging young and parents to incorporate post-fledging habitat (Roth et al 1996). The non-breeding
population is listed as stable in New Jersey, so the default buffer was chosen and will not be used in the
Landscape Project
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5675 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5677 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5679 Breeding Breeding Sighting 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Rosenberg, K., R. Hames, R. Rohrbaugh, S. Barker Swarthout, J. Lowe, and A. Dhondt.
2003. A land manager’s guide to improving habitat for forest thrushes. The Cornell Lab of
Ornithology.
Breeds in interior and edges of deciduous and mixed forests in cool, moist sites near water.
Requires moderate to dense understory with a lot of shade, moist soil, and decaying leaf litter. High
suitability is in forest patches at least 81 ha (200 acres) with suitability declining in patches less than
40.5 ha (100 acres). Can breed in smaller patches but have lower reproductive success. Must factor
in forest size, amount of core area, amount of edge, and vegetation structure.
Roth, R. R., M. S. Johnson, and T. J. Underwood. 1996. Wood Thrush (Hylocichla mustelina).
In The Birds of North America, No. 246 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of Natural
Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, and The American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C.
Breeds in interior and edges of deciduous and mixed forests, especially well-developed, upland,
mesic ones. Key elements of oft-used sites: trees >16 m in height, high variety of deciduous tree
species, moderate subcanopy and shrub density, shade, fairly open forest floor, moist soil, and
decaying leaf litter. Waning of these features associated with range and altitudinal limits - 750 to
1,050 m in Vermont and 1,325 m in the Smoky Mtns. More likely to occur in larger-area forests but
may nest in 1-ha fragments and semi-wooded residential areas and parks. Breeding territories range
from 0.08–2.8 ha but tend to use areas outside territories. Most nesting material gathered <35 m
from nest, but females may cross territories to reach mud source. Fledglings and parents tend to be
200-400 meters away from nest within weeks of fledging.
Fall migratory habitat includes second-growth and forest-edge habitats with fruit. No data for spring
transients to suggest deviation from breeding season habitats.
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Helmitheros vermivorum
Worm-eating Warbler
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 0.6 - 5 ha with an upper confidence limit of 1.8 ha (Hanners and Patton 1998).
The breeding occurrence area was chosen to incorporate territories of second nesting attempts and post-
fledging habitat (Hanners and Patton 1998). The non-breeding population is listed as stable in New Jersey,
so the default buffer was chosen and will not be used in the Landscape Project.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5682 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
175 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5683 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5686 Breeding Breeding Sighting 175 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Hanners, L. A. and S. R. Patton. 1998. Worm-eating Warbler (Helmitheros vermivorus). In
The Birds of North America, No. 623 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America,
Inc., Philadelphia, PA.
Occurs regularly where large tracts of mature deciduous or mixed deciduous-coniferous forest
overlap with hillsides and smaller patches of shrubs such as mountain laurel and rhododendron.
Suggested minimum area requirements range from 21 to 340 ha. Plant composition of the forest
community appears less important to this species than forest age and size, presence of hillsides, and
occurrence of dense patches of shrub cover. Species occurs in variety of forest communities,
including eastern hemlock, beech-maple, and oak-hickory associations, and may be found through a
continuum of moist to dry environments
Mean territory size in Connecticut: 1.72 ha ± 0.78 SD (range 0.60-4.95, n = 94 territories), derived
from mapping repeated observations of singing males, fights, and nest sites. No known relationship
between territory size and territory quality.
Second or third nesting attempts are within 10 - 100m of first nest. Individuals may be successful at
sites as small as 19 ha, but little is known about return rates of adults to these sites in subsequent
years. The species is considered area sensitive and nests in highest densities in forests of at least
several hundred hectares. Within first week of fledging, begin following parents widely within
territory and sometimes beyond territory boundaries. Unknown when they become totally
independent.
Rosenberg, K. V., R. W. Rohrbaugh, Jr., S. E. Barker, J. D. Lowe, R. S. Hames, and A. A.
Dhondt. 1999. A land manager’s guide to improving habitat for scarlet tanagers and other
forest-interior birds. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Worm-eating warblers share some habitat characteristics with Scarlet Tanagers. In the Piedmont
Plains and Delaware Bay regions, they prefer areas at least 70% forested, deciduous or mixed, and
the suitability increases with proximity of forest patches to larger, contiguous forest patches. In the
Highlands, they prefer areas at least 50% forest, deciduous, and mixed and occasionally coniferous,
and the suitability increases with proximity of forest patches to larger, contiguous forest patches.
Date researched: 9/30/2008
Last researched by: Petzinger
Icteria virens
Yellow-breasted Chat
Justification:
Breeding territories range from 0.4 - 2.4 ha (Eckerle and Thompson 2001). The breeding occurrence area was
based on the upper territory limit if 1.75 ha. The nonbreeding population is listed as stable in NJ, so the
default buffer was chosen and will not be used in the Landscape Project.
Literature:
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5694 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5695 Breeding Breeding Sighting-
Confirmed
75 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5697 Breeding Breeding Sighting 75 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Eckerle, K. P., and C. F. Thompson. 2001. Yellow-breasted Chat (Icteria virens). In The Birds
of North America, No. 575 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc.,
Philadelphia, PA.
Breeding habitat consists of low, dense deciduous and coniferous vegetation, including early second-
growth forest and shrub in abandoned agricultural fields, clear-cuts, power-line corridors,
fencerows, forest edges and openings, and near streams, pond edges, and swamps > 0.5 ha.
Tolerates areas of open grass if dense shrubs are nearby. Classified as an open-canopy obligatory
species (i.e., preferred open overstory and brushy understory), with population density directly
related to shrub density to a height of 4.5 m. Can also be found in areas with dense overstory
vegetation and an open subcanopy layer in e. Tennessee, where it is rare. Readily colonizes clear-cut
areas and power-line corridors. Population density positively correlated with blackberry density and
patchiness in power-line corridors. In W. Virginia, occurs in forest edges and openings, and
occupies openings in any forest type, including spruce forest with heavy understory growths of
blackberries. Appears early in succession when woody plants begin to invade and reaches peak
densities in dense shrub thickets. In se. Missouri, numbers highest in clear-cut areas compared with
areas subjected to other harvesting techniques. In Delta National Forest in Mississippi, breeding
densities highest 4-5 yr after clear-cutting in habitats where residual stems were left, compared with
mature forest or habitats where all residual stems were sheared. In e. Texas, presence was positively
associated with increasing density of shrub stems, foliage density at 0-3 m, percentage of pine
saplings, and number of shrub species; presence negatively correlated with vegetation height,
percentage of canopy closure, foliage density at 12-15 m, and density of pole-sized trees. Species
present in 3- to 12-yr-old mixed-oak stands in Virginia also described high densities in a heavily
wooded, partly swampy floodplain forest with closing canopy. In N. Carolina prefers dense thickets
in upland and floodplain habitats.
In a low-density population in s. Indiana, the yearly mean territory size ranged 1.1-1.6 ha, n = 4 yr;
grand mean 1.2 ha ± 0.51 SD; range 0.4-2.4, n = 28. In a high-density population (territory size
ranged from 0.5 to 1.0 ha in Virginia, however, territorial intrusions and male-male interactions
were the rule, as territorial intruders were frequently captured in mist-nets well within boundaries of
neighboring territories. In s. Illinois, 4 territories were 0.35-1.75 ha (mean 0.82).
Migratory habitat tends to be the same low, dense vegetation used on breeding grounds, although
spring migrants occasionally found in suburban habitat.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Petzinger
Nyctanassa violacea
Yellow-crowned Night-heron
Justification:
Nesting area is defined by the area the birds actually use, as these birds do not defend a territory except
immediately around their individual nests. The boundaries of the colony are defined as much by social
attraction phenomenon and by habitat suitability. Consequently there is now immediately apparent
justification for buffering the mapped extent of a nesting area. Where the mapped extent of a colony was
available it was used. Where the mapped extent was not available the default seconds precision circle was
used around the recorded nesting location point.
ENSP reviewed the literature regarding commuting distance for colonial nesting long-legged wading birds
which fairly consistently indicates that the importance of suitable foraging habitat decreases with the distance
from the nesting area (e.g. Dowd and Flake 1985, Custer et al. 2004, Kelly et al 1993, Thompson 1978). This
is not surprising considering the energy demands of long commutes and the fact that, all other things being
equal, if suitable foraging habitat is randomly distributed within the possible foraging range, simple geometry
would argue that availability would increase with the square of the distance from the colony. Consequently, a
particular type of wetland or riparian habitat is more critical if it is located close to a nesting area than a
similar area located near the edge of the energetically feasible foraging range from the colony. It would
therefore be unjustifiable to use the maximum foraging distance figures to define all potential foraging
habitat as critical foraging habitat for a particular nesting colony. Conversely, using an average foraging
Aves
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4990 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4991 Breeding Roosting Area 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4992 Breeding Foraging 1.7 mile
radii of
open
water/emer
gent
wetland
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4993 Non-
Breeding
Non-breeding
Concentration
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is No
4994 Breeding Breeding Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
4995 Breeding Nesting Colony 71.25
Meter
Buffer
2 copies
needed -
both get
rule #1, but
different
buffer sizes
Convert to
a point and
buffer
2 copies
needed - one
gets rule #3,
the other #1
Yes
distance figure may under-include suitable habitat by omitting some foraging areas that are important because
they provide particularly rich and easily exploited feeding habitat.
Further, research (Custer et al. 2004) indicates that longer commuting distances are more frequent during
high-demand and demographically critical nestling rearing period. Where the literature on commuting
distance includes several studies, there can be wide variability in the mean commuting
distances between different studies. When such was the case, we either averaged the reported mean
commuting distances or used the information from the study with a large sample size or from an area most
ecologically similar to New Jersey. We then doubled this figure.
A study conducted in North Carolina determined that the average foraging commute was 1.4 km (Custer and
Osborn 1978). Research from the Chesapeake Bay found a smaller average foraging commute at <0.5 km.
NatureServe recommends a minimum inferred extent of 3 km and justifies it by noting a low mean foraging
range size (NatureServe 2006). We apply a 2.7 km radius around a colony to protect foraging areas.
Literature:
Bentley. 1994. Use of a landscape-level approach to determine the habitat requirements of the
yellow-crowned night-heron in the lower Chesapeake Bay. Masters Thesis, College of William
and Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia.
Average distance between nest and foraging area was <0.5 km.
Custer and Osborn. 1978. Feeding habitat use by colonially breeding herons, egrets and ibises
in North Carolina. Auk 95: 733-743.
Average distance between nests and foraging areas was 1.4 km.
Custer, C.M., S.A. Suarez, D.A. Olsen. 2004. Feeding habitat characteristics of the Great Blue
Heron and Great Egret nesting along the Upper Mississippi River, 1995-1998. Waterbirds
27(4): 454-468.
The majority of the herons in this study fed <5 km from the nesting site, and avoided areas > 10 km
away. They flew farther to sites during the brood-rearing period than during incubation. Only 10%
of the feeding flights ended at a location where another heron was present, indicating that they
prefer to feed alone.
Dowd and Flake. 1985. Foraging habits and movements of nesting Great Blue Heron in
prairie river ecosystem, South Dakota. Journal of Field ornithology 56: 377-387.
A study in South Dakota found that the average distance that great blues flew from their colony to a
foraging site was 3.1 km, and the maximum observed distance was 24.4 km. Eighty-five percent of
the herons in the study fed within 4 km of the colony.
Kelly J. P., H. M. Pratt, P. L. Greene. 1993. The distribution, reproductive success, and
habitat characteristics of heron and egret breeding colonies in the San Francisco Bay area.
Colonial Waterbirds. 16: 18-27.
> 95% of great blue herons and >90% great egrets fed within 20 km of their colony.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
The inferred minimum extent habitat use (when actual extent is unknown) is 3 km. This is based on
a low mean foraging range size.
Thompson. 1978. Feeding areas of Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets nesting in the
floodplain of the upper Mississippi River. Proc. Colonial Waterbird Group. 2: 202-213.
In central Minnesota the average distance that the herons flew from the colony to a foraging area
was 6.5 km, and the maximum observed was 20.4 km. Fifty-three percent of the herons in the study
fed within 4 km of the colony.
Date researched: 7/1/2006
Last researched by: Davis
Alasmidonta varicosa
Brook Floater
Justification:
Although adult freshwater mussels are mostly sedentary, their larvae (glochidia) with few exceptions are
obligate parasites on specific fish hosts. Without the host fish, mussel species are unable to complete their
reproductive cycle and therefore face extinction (Bogan 1993). Movement of host fishes bearing glochidia is
by far the main mechanism of freshwater mussel dispersal (Watters 1992). Given the potential distance of
transport by host fishes, D. Strayer (pers. comm.) as reported by Cordeiro, J. (2004) on the NatureServe web
site, suggests a separation distance of at least 10 km when reporting freshwater mussel occurrences. Cordeiro
(2004) recommends a separation distance in flowing water of 2 kilometers between sightings in unsuitable
habitat and 10 km in suitable habitat. Populations/occurrences as defined by NatureServe are based on some
evidence of historic or current presence, including live specimens or recently dead shells (including soft
tissue still attached and/or nacre still glossy without signs of external weathering or staining) at any given
location with potentially recurring existence. Given that separation distance based on potential host fish
dispersal is somewhat arbitrary, the application of a 50 m radius buffer which is then buffered upstream and
downstream by .75 m is conservative. Also, our recommendations do not take into account distances
necessary to protect populations from water quality threats such as heavy metals, pesticides, sewage
treatment plant effluents, and other point and nonpoint contaminant sources.
Literature:
Bivalvia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5008 N/A Fresh Shell Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5009 N/A Fresh Dead Individual 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5010 N/A Glochidia Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5011 N/A Live Individual
Sighting
50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5012 N/A Relict Shell 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
Bogan, A. 1993. Freshwater bivalve extinctions (Mollusca: Unionoida): a search for causes.
Amer. Zool. 33:599-609.
N/A
Cordeiro, J. (2004). NatureServe Web Site. Population/occurrence delineation for
freshwater mussels.
N/A
Watters, G.T. 1992. Unionids, fishes, and the species-area curve. Journal of Biogeography
19:481-490.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Bowers-Altman
Strophitus undulatus
Creeper
Justification:
Although adult freshwater mussels are mostly sedentary, their larvae (glochidia) with few exceptions are
obligate parasites on specific fish hosts. Without the host fish, mussel species are unable to complete their
reproductive cycle and therefore face extinction (Bogan 1993). Movement of host fishes bearing glochidia is
by far the main mechanism of freshwater mussel dispersal (Watters 1992). Given the potential distance of
transport by host fishes, D. Strayer (pers. comm.) as reported by Cordeiro, J. (2004) on the NatureServe web
site, suggests a separation distance of at least 10 km when reporting freshwater mussel occurrences. Cordeiro
(2004) recommends a separation distance in flowing water of 2 kilometers between sightings in unsuitable
habitat and 10 km in suitable habitat. Populations/occurrences as defined by NatureServe are based on some
evidence of historic or current presence, including live specimens or recently dead shells (including soft
tissue still attached and/or nacre still glossy without signs of external weathering or staining) at any given
location with potentially recurring existence. Given that separation distance based on potential host fish
dispersal is somewhat arbitrary, the application of a 50 m radius buffer which is then buffered upstream and
downstream by .75 m is conservative. Also, our recommendations do not take into account distances
necessary to protect populations from water quality threats such as heavy metals, pesticides, sewage
treatment plant effluents, and other point and nonpoint contaminant sources.
Literature:
Bivalvia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5169 N/A Glochidia Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5170 N/A Relict Shell 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5171 N/A Live Individual
Sighting
50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5172 N/A Fresh Shell Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5173 N/A Fresh Dead Individual 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Bogan, A. 1993. Freshwater bivalve extinctions (Mollusca: Unionoida): a search for causes.
Amer. Zool. 33:599-609.
N/A
Cordeiro, J. (2004). NatureServe Web Site. Population/occurrence delineation for
freshwater mussels.
N/A
Watters, G.T. 1992. Unionids, fishes, and the species-area curve. Journal of Biogeography
19:481-490.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Bowers-Altman
Alasmidonta heterodon
Dwarf Wedgemussel
Justification:
Although adult freshwater mussels are mostly sedentary, their larvae (glochidia) with few exceptions are
obligate parasites on specific fish hosts. Without the host fish, mussel species are unable to complete their
reproductive cycle and therefore face extinction (Bogan 1993). Movement of host fishes bearing glochidia is
by far the main mechanism of freshwater mussel dispersal (Watters 1992). Given the potential distance of
transport by host fishes, D. Strayer (pers. comm.) as reported by Cordeiro, J. (2004) on the NatureServe web
site, suggests a separation distance of at least 10 km when reporting freshwater mussel occurrences. Cordeiro
(2004) recommends a separation distance in flowing water of 2 kilometers between sightings in unsuitable
habitat and 10 km in suitable habitat. Populations/occurrences as defined by NatureServe are based on some
evidence of historic or current presence, including live specimens or recently dead shells (including soft
tissue still attached and/or nacre still glossy without signs of external weathering or staining) at any given
location with potentially recurring existence. Given that separation distance based on potential host fish
dispersal is somewhat arbitrary, the application of a 50 m radius buffer which is then buffered upstream and
downstream by .75 m is conservative. Also, our recommendations do not take into account distances
necessary to protect populations from water quality threats such as heavy metals, pesticides, sewage
treatment plant effluents, and other point and nonpoint contaminant sources.
Literature:
Bivalvia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5003 N/A Fresh Shell Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5004 N/A Fresh Dead Individual 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5005 N/A Live Individual
Sighting
50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5006 N/A Relict Shell 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5007 N/A Glochidia Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
Bogan, A. 1993. Freshwater bivalve extinctions (Mollusca: Unionoida): a search for causes.
Amer. Zool. 33:599-609.
N/A
Cordeiro, J. (2004). NatureServe Web Site. Population/occurrence delineation for
freshwater mussels.
N/A
Watters, G.T. 1992. Unionids, fishes, and the species-area curve. Journal of Biogeography
19:481-490.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Bowers-Altman
Lampsilis radiata
Eastern Lampmussel
Justification:
Although adult freshwater mussels are mostly sedentary, their larvae (glochidia) with few exceptions are
obligate parasites on specific fish hosts. Without the host fish, mussel species are unable to complete their
reproductive cycle and therefore face extinction (Bogan 1993). Movement of host fishes bearing glochidia is
by far the main mechanism of freshwater mussel dispersal (Watters 1992). Given the potential distance of
transport by host fishes, D. Strayer (pers. comm.) as reported by Cordeiro, J. (2004) on the NatureServe web
site, suggests a separation distance of at least 10 km when reporting freshwater mussel occurrences. Cordeiro
(2004) recommends a separation distance in flowing water of 2 kilometers between sightings in unsuitable
habitat and 10 km in suitable habitat. Populations/occurrences as defined by NatureServe are based on some
evidence of historic or current presence, including live specimens or recently dead shells (including soft
tissue still attached and/or nacre still glossy without signs of external weathering or staining) at any given
location with potentially recurring existence. Given that separation distance based on potential host fish
dispersal is somewhat arbitrary, the application of a 50 m radius buffer which is then buffered upstream and
downstream by .75 m is conservative. Also, our recommendations do not take into account distances
necessary to protect populations from water quality threats such as heavy metals, pesticides, sewage
treatment plant effluents, and other point and nonpoint contaminant sources.
Literature:
Bivalvia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5018 N/A Fresh Shell Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5019 N/A Fresh Dead Individual 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5020 N/A Glochidia Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5021 N/A Relict Shell 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5022 N/A Live Individual
Sighting
50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Bogan, A. 1993. Freshwater bivalve extinctions (Mollusca: Unionoida): a search for causes.
Amer. Zool. 33:599-609.
N/A
Cordeiro, J. (2004). NatureServe Web Site. Population/occurrence delineation for
freshwater mussels.
N/A
Watters, G.T. 1992. Unionids, fishes, and the species-area curve. Journal of Biogeography
19:481-490.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Bowers-Altman
Ligumia nasuta
Eastern Pondmussel
Justification:
Although adult freshwater mussels are mostly sedentary, their larvae (glochidia) with few exceptions are
obligate parasites on specific fish hosts. Without the host fish, mussel species are unable to complete their
reproductive cycle and therefore face extinction (Bogan 1993). Movement of host fishes bearing glochidia is
by far the main mechanism of freshwater mussel dispersal (Watters 1992). Given the potential distance of
transport by host fishes, D. Strayer (pers. comm.) as reported by Cordeiro, J. (2004) on the NatureServe web
site, suggests a separation distance of at least 10 km when reporting freshwater mussel occurrences. Cordeiro
(2004) recommends a separation distance in flowing water of 2 kilometers between sightings in unsuitable
habitat and 10 km in suitable habitat. Populations/occurrences as defined by NatureServe are based on some
evidence of historic or current presence, including live specimens or recently dead shells (including soft
tissue still attached and/or nacre still glossy without signs of external weathering or staining) at any given
location with potentially recurring existence. Given that separation distance based on potential host fish
dispersal is somewhat arbitrary, the application of a 50 m radius buffer which is then buffered upstream and
downstream by .75 m is conservative. Also, our recommendations do not take into account distances
necessary to protect populations from water quality threats such as heavy metals, pesticides, sewage
treatment plant effluents, and other point and nonpoint contaminant sources.
Literature:
Bivalvia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5038 N/A Relict Shell 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5039 N/A Live Individual
Sighting
50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5040 N/A Fresh Dead Individual 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5041 N/A Glochidia Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5042 N/A Fresh Shell Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Bogan, A. 1993. Freshwater bivalve extinctions (Mollusca: Unionoida): a search for causes.
Amer. Zool. 33:599-609.
N/A
Cordeiro, J. (2004). NatureServe Web Site. Population/occurrence delineation for
freshwater mussels.
N/A
Watters, G.T. 1992. Unionids, fishes, and the species-area curve. Journal of Biogeography
19:481-490.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Bowers-Altman
Lasmigona subviridis
Green Floater
Justification:
Although adult freshwater mussels are mostly sedentary, their larvae (glochidia) with few exceptions are
obligate parasites on specific fish hosts. Without the host fish, mussel species are unable to complete their
reproductive cycle and therefore face extinction (Bogan 1993). Movement of host fishes bearing glochidia is
by far the main mechanism of freshwater mussel dispersal (Watters 1992). Given the potential distance of
transport by host fishes, D. Strayer (pers. comm.) as reported by Cordeiro, J. (2004) on the NatureServe web
site, suggests a separation distance of at least 10 km when reporting freshwater mussel occurrences. Cordeiro
(2004) recommends a separation distance in flowing water of 2 kilometers between sightings in unsuitable
habitat and 10 km in suitable habitat. Populations/occurrences as defined by NatureServe are based on some
evidence of historic or current presence, including live specimens or recently dead shells (including soft
tissue still attached and/or nacre still glossy without signs of external weathering or staining) at any given
location with potentially recurring existence. Given that separation distance based on potential host fish
dispersal is somewhat arbitrary, the application of a 50 m radius buffer which is then buffered upstream and
downstream by .75 m is conservative. Also, our recommendations do not take into account distances
necessary to protect populations from water quality threats such as heavy metals, pesticides, sewage
treatment plant effluents, and other point and nonpoint contaminant sources.
Literature:
Bivalvia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5013 N/A Glochidia Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5014 N/A Relict Shell 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5015 N/A Live Individual
Sighting
50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5016 N/A Fresh Dead Individual 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5017 N/A Fresh Shell Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Bogan, A. 1993. Freshwater bivalve extinctions (Mollusca: Unionoida): a search for causes.
Amer. Zool. 33:599-609.
N/A
Cordeiro, J. (2004). NatureServe Web Site. Population/occurrence delineation for
freshwater mussels.
N/A
Watters, G.T. 1992. Unionids, fishes, and the species-area curve. Journal of Biogeography
19:481-490.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Bowers-Altman
Leptodea ochracea
Tidewater Mucket
Justification:
Although adult freshwater mussels are mostly sedentary, their larvae (glochidia) with few exceptions are
obligate parasites on specific fish hosts. Without the host fish, mussel species are unable to complete their
reproductive cycle and therefore face extinction (Bogan 1993). Movement of host fishes bearing glochidia is
by far the main mechanism of freshwater mussel dispersal (Watters 1992). Given the potential distance of
transport by host fishes, D. Strayer (pers. comm.) as reported by Cordeiro, J. (2004) on the NatureServe web
site, suggests a separation distance of at least 10 km when reporting freshwater mussel occurrences. Cordeiro
(2004) recommends a separation distance in flowing water of 2 kilometers between sightings in unsuitable
habitat and 10 km in suitable habitat. Populations/occurrences as defined by NatureServe are based on some
evidence of historic or current presence, including live specimens or recently dead shells (including soft
tissue still attached and/or nacre still glossy without signs of external weathering or staining) at any given
location with potentially recurring existence. Given that separation distance based on potential host fish
dispersal is somewhat arbitrary, the application of a 50 m radius buffer which is then buffered upstream and
downstream by .75 m is conservative. Also, our recommendations do not take into account distances
necessary to protect populations from water quality threats such as heavy metals, pesticides, sewage
treatment plant effluents, and other point and nonpoint contaminant sources.
Literature:
Bivalvia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5023 N/A Relict Shell 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5024 N/A Fresh Dead Individual 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5025 N/A Glochidia Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5026 N/A Live Individual
Sighting
50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5027 N/A Fresh Shell Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Bogan, A. 1993. Freshwater bivalve extinctions (Mollusca: Unionoida): a search for causes.
Amer. Zool. 33:599-609.
N/A
Cordeiro, J. (2004). NatureServe Web Site. Population/occurrence delineation for
freshwater mussels.
N/A
Watters, G.T. 1992. Unionids, fishes, and the species-area curve. Journal of Biogeography
19:481-490.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Bowers-Altman
Alasmidonta undulata
Triangle Floater
Justification:
Although adult freshwater mussels are mostly sedentary, their larvae (glochidia) with few exceptions are
obligate parasites on specific fish hosts. Without the host fish, mussel species are unable to complete their
reproductive cycle and therefore face extinction (Bogan 1993). Movement of host fishes bearing glochidia is
by far the main mechanism of freshwater mussel dispersal (Watters 1992). Given the potential distance of
transport by host fishes, D. Strayer (pers. comm.) as reported by Cordeiro, J. (2004) on the NatureServe web
site, suggests a separation distance of at least 10 km when reporting freshwater mussel occurrences. Cordeiro
(2004) recommends a separation distance in flowing water of 2 kilometers between sightings in unsuitable
habitat and 10 km in suitable habitat. Populations/occurrences as defined by NatureServe are based on some
evidence of historic or current presence, including live specimens or recently dead shells (including soft
tissue still attached and/or nacre still glossy without signs of external weathering or staining) at any given
location with potentially recurring existence. Given that separation distance based on potential host fish
dispersal is somewhat arbitrary, the application of a 50 m radius buffer which is then buffered upstream and
downstream by .75 m is conservative. Also, our recommendations do not take into account distances
necessary to protect populations from water quality threats such as heavy metals, pesticides, sewage
treatment plant effluents, and other point and nonpoint contaminant sources.
Literature:
Bivalvia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5033 N/A Relict Shell 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5034 N/A Fresh Shell Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5035 N/A Glochidia Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5036 N/A Live Individual
Sighting
50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5037 N/A Fresh Dead Individual 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Bogan, A. 1993. Freshwater bivalve extinctions (Mollusca: Unionoida): a search for causes.
Amer. Zool. 33:599-609.
N/A
Cordeiro, J. (2004). NatureServe Web Site. Population/occurrence delineation for
freshwater mussels.
N/A
Watters, G.T. 1992. Unionids, fishes, and the species-area curve. Journal of Biogeography
19:481-490.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Bowers-Altman
Lampsilis cariosa
Yellow Lampmussel
Justification:
Although adult freshwater mussels are mostly sedentary, their larvae (glochidia) with few exceptions are
obligate parasites on specific fish hosts. Without the host fish, mussel species are unable to complete their
reproductive cycle and therefore face extinction (Bogan 1993). Movement of host fishes bearing glochidia is
by far the main mechanism of freshwater mussel dispersal (Watters 1992). Given the potential distance of
transport by host fishes, D. Strayer (pers. comm.) as reported by Cordeiro, J. (2004) on the NatureServe web
site, suggests a separation distance of at least 10 km when reporting freshwater mussel occurrences. Cordeiro
(2004) recommends a separation distance in flowing water of 2 kilometers between sightings in unsuitable
habitat and 10 km in suitable habitat. Populations/occurrences as defined by NatureServe are based on some
evidence of historic or current presence, including live specimens or recently dead shells (including soft
tissue still attached and/or nacre still glossy without signs of external weathering or staining) at any given
location with potentially recurring existence. Given that separation distance based on potential host fish
dispersal is somewhat arbitrary, the application of a 50 m radius buffer which is then buffered upstream and
downstream by .75 m is conservative. Also, our recommendations do not take into account distances
necessary to protect populations from water quality threats such as heavy metals, pesticides, sewage
treatment plant effluents, and other point and nonpoint contaminant sources.
Literature:
Bivalvia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5028 N/A Fresh Shell Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5029 N/A Live Individual
Sighting
50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5030 N/A Glochidia Sighting 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
5031 N/A Fresh Dead Individual 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5032 N/A Relict Shell 50 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
No
Bogan, A. 1993. Freshwater bivalve extinctions (Mollusca: Unionoida): a search for causes.
Amer. Zool. 33:599-609.
N/A
Cordeiro, J. (2004). NatureServe Web Site. Population/occurrence delineation for
freshwater mussels.
N/A
Watters, G.T. 1992. Unionids, fishes, and the species-area curve. Journal of Biogeography
19:481-490.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Bowers-Altman
Macromia alleghaniensis
Allegheny River Cruiser
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5841 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5842 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5843 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5844 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5845 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5846 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Atrytone arogos arogos
Arogos Skipper
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Arogos Skipper’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius was
formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4735 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4736 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4737 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4738 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4739 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, BE and L Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. Rutger’s
University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY.
N/A
Gochfeld, M and J Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey: a guide to their status,
distribution, conservation, and appreciation. Rutger’s University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Arogos Skipper. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of
life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
A good short distance and occasional long distance colonizer. Evidence that of this skipper can
easily disperse several kilometers is overwhelming, and there is strong implication of larger
movements at least in and near New Jersey.
Opler, PA and V Malikul. 1998. A guide to eastern butterflies. Houghton Mifflin. New
York, NY.
N/A
Scott, J. 1986. The butterflies of North America: a natural history and field guide. Stanford
University Press. Stanford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Cordulegaster obliqua
Arrowhead Spiketail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5871 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5872 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5873 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5874 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5875 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5876 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Gomphus apomyius
Banner Clubtail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5895 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5896 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5897 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5898 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5899 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5900 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Lycaena hyllus
Bronze Copper
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Bronze Copper’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius was
formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5053 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5054 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5055 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5056 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5057 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, BE and L Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. Rutger’s
University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY.
N/A
Gochfeld, M and J Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey: a guide to their status,
distribution, conservation, and appreciation. Rutger’s University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Bronze Copper. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life
[web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
Inferred Minimum Extent of habitat use: .5 km.
Opler, PA and V Malikul. 1998. A guide to eastern butterflies. Houghton Mifflin. New
York, NY.
N/A
Scott, J. 1986. The butterflies of North America: a natural history and field guide. Stanford
University Press. Stanford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Ophiogomphus aspersus
Brook Snaketail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5949 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5950 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5951 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5952 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5953 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5954 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Somatochlora walshii
Brush-tipped Emerald
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5955 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5956 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5957 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5958 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5959 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5960 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Pontia protodice
Checkered White
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Checkered White’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius was
formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5058 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5059 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5060 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5061 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5062 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, BE and L Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. Rutger’s
University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY.
N/A
Gochfeld, M and J Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey: a guide to their status,
distribution, conservation, and appreciation. Rutger’s University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Checkered White. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of
life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
Inferred Minimum Extent of habitat use: 1 km.
Opler, PA and V Malikul. 1998. A guide to eastern butterflies. Houghton Mifflin. New
York, NY.
N/A
Scott, J. 1986. The butterflies of North America: a natural history and field guide. Stanford
University Press. Stanford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Gomphus vastus
Cobra Clubtail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5967 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5968 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5969 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5970 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5971 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5972 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Somatochlora georgiana
Coppery Emerald
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5991 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5992 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5993 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5994 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5995 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5996 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Leucorrhinia glacialis
Crimson-ringed Whiteface
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5997 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5998 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5999 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6000 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6001 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6002 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Hesperia attalus slossonae
Dotted Skipper
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Dotted Skipper’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius was
formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5134 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5135 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5136 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5137 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5138 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, BE and L Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. Rutger’s
University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY.
N/A
Gochfeld, M and J Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey: a guide to their status,
distribution, conservation, and appreciation. Rutger’s University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Dotted Skipper. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life
[web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
Inferred Minimum Extent of habitat use: 5 km.
Opler, PA and V. Malikul. 1998. A guide to eastern butterflies. Houghton Mifflin. New
York, NY.
N/A
Scott, J. 1986. The butterflies of North America: a natural history and field guide. Stanford
University Press. Stanford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Somatochlora forcipata
Forcipate Emerald
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6491 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6492 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6493 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6494 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6495 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6496 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Callophrys irus
Frosted Elfin
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Frosted Elfin’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius was
formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5063 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5064 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5065 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5066 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5067 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, BE and L. Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. Rutger’s
University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY.
N/A
Gochfeld, M. and J. Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey: a guide to their status,
distribution, conservation, and appreciation. Rutger’s University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Frosted Elfin. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life
[web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
Inferred Minimum Extent of habitat use: 2km. Small Baptisia or lupine patches within 2 or 3 km
from substantial colonies are almost never unoccupied.
Opler, PA and V. Malikul. 1998. A guide to eastern butterflies. Houghton Mifflin. New
York, NY.
N/A
Scott, J. 1986. The butterflies of North America: a natural history and field guide. Stanford
University Press. Stanford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Neonympha areolatus septentrionalis
Georgia Satyr
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Georgia Satyr’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius was
formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5139 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5140 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5141 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5142 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5143 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, BE and L. Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. Rutger’s
University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY.
N/A
Gochfeld, M and J Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey: a guide to their status,
distribution, conservation, and appreciation. Rutger’s University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Helicta Satyr. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life
[web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
N/A
Opler, PA and V Malikul. 1998. A guide to eastern butterflies. Houghton Mifflin. New
York, NY.
N/A
Scott, J. 1986. The butterflies of North America: a natural history and field guide. Stanford
University Press. Stanford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Libellula auripennis
Golden-winged Skimmer
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5764 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5765 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5766 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5767 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5768 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5769 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Tachopteryx thoreyi
Gray Petaltail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6093 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6094 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6095 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6096 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6097 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6098 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Gomphus viridifrons
Green-faced Clubtail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6105 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6106 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6107 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6108 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6109 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6110 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Gomphus descriptus
Harpoon Clubtail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6123 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6124 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6125 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6126 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6127 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6128 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Chlosyne harrisii
Harris Checkerspot
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Harris’ Checkerspot’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius
was formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5144 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5145 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5146 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5147 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5148 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, B.E. and L. Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. Rutgers
University Press. New Brunswick, NJ
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY.
N/A
Gochfeld, M. and J. Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey. A Guide to Their Status,
Distribution, Conservation, and Appreciation. Rutgers University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Harris’ Checkerspot. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia
of life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
Inferred Minimum Extent of habitat use: 2 km
Opler, P.A. and V. Malikul. 1998. A Guide to Eastern Butterflies. Houghton Mifflin
Company. New York, NY
N/A
Scott, J.A. 1986. The Butterflies of North America, a Natural History and Field Guide.
Stanford University Press. Standford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 3/30/2010
Last researched by: Somes
Callophrys hesseli
Hessel's Hairstreak
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Hessel’s Hairstreak’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius
was formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5149 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5150 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5151 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5152 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5153 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, B.E. and L. Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. Rutgers
University Press. New Brunswick, NJ
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY
N/A
Gochfeld, M. and J. Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey. A Guide to Their Status,
Distribution, Conservation, and Appreciation. Rutgers University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Hessel’s Hairstreak. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia
of life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
Inferred Minimum Extent of habitat use: 1 km.
Opler, P.A. and V. Malikul. 1998. A Guide to Eastern Butterflies. Houghton Mifflin
Company. New York, NY
N/A
Scott, J.A. 1986. The Butterflies of North America, a Natural History and Field Guide.
Stanford University Press. Standford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 3/3/2010
Last researched by: Somes
Callophrys polios
Hoary Elfin
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Hoary Elfin’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius was
formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5154 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5155 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5156 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5157 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5158 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, BE and L Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. Rutger’s
University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY.
N/A
Gochfeld, M and J Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey: a guide to their status,
distribution, conservation, and appreciation. Rutger’s University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Hoary Elfin. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life
[web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
Inferred Minimum Extent of habitat use: 2 km.
Opler, PA and V Malikul. 1998. A guide to eastern butterflies. Houghton Mifflin. New
York, NY.
N/A
Scott, J. 1986. The butterflies of North America: a natural history and field guide. Stanford
University Press. Stanford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Leucorrhinia hudsonica
Hudsonian Whiteface
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6129 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6130 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6131 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6132 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6133 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6134 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Somatochlora kennedyi
Kennedy's Emerald
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6497 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6498 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6499 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6500 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6501 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6502 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Hesperia leonardus
Leonard's Skipper
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Leonard’s Skipper’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius was
formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6551 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6552 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6553 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6554 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6555 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, B.E. and L. Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. Rutgers
University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY.
N/A
Gochfeld, M. and J. Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey. A Guide to Their Status,
Distribution, Conservation, and Appreciation. Rutgers University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Leonard’s Skipper. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia
of life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
Inferred Minimum Extent of habitat use: 1 km.
Opler, P.A. and V. Malikul. 1998. A Guide to Eastern Butterflies. Houghton Mifflin
Company. New York, NY.
N/A
Scott, J.A. 1986. The Butterflies of North America, a Natuarl History and Field Guide.
Stanford University Press. Standford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 3/30/2010
Last researched by: Somes
Ophiogomphus mainensis
Maine Snaketail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6153 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6154 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6155 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6156 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6157 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6158 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Gomphus fraternus
Midland Clubtail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6503 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6504 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6505 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6506 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6507 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6508 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Neonympha mitchellii mitchellii
Mitchell's Satyr
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Mitchell’s Satyr’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius was
formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5043 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5044 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5045 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5046 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5047 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Barton, B.J. and C.E. Bach. 2005. Habitat Use by the Federally Endangered Mitchell’s Satyr
Butterfly (Neonympha mitchellii mitchellii) in a Michigan Prairie Fen. Am. Midl. Nat. 153:41-
51.
The longest distances flown by males and females were 511.8 m and 344.8 m, respectively.
Beans, B.E. and L. Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. Rutgers
University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY.
N/A
Gochfeld, M. and J. Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey. A Guide to Their Status,
Distribution, Conservation, and Appreciation. Rutgers University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Mitchell’s Satyr. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of
life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
Inferred Minimum Extent of habitat use: 1 km.
Opler, P.A. and V. Malikul. 1998. A Guide to Eastern Butterflies. Houghton Mifflin
Company. New York, NY.
N/A
Scott, J.A. 1986. The Butterflies of North America, a Natuarl History and Field Guide.
Stanford University Press. Standford, CA.
N/A
Szymanski, J., Shuey, J.A., and K. Oberhauser. 2004. Population Structure of the
Endangered Mitchell’s Satyr, Neonympha mitchellii mitchellii (French): Implications for
Conservation. Am. Midl. Nat. 152:304-322.
Maximum range estimates were 290 m and 420 m at the two sites.
Date researched: 3/30/2010
Last researched by: Somes
Enallagma laterale
New England Bluet
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6201 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6202 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6203 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6204 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6205 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6206 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Cicindela dorsalis dorsalis
Northeastern Beach Tiger Beetle
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from information obtained through
ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the occurrence area
polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar to those found
in NJ. For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project maps, insufficient information
exists in the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In these cases, a default
occurrence area (71.25 meter radius) is applied to take into account location uncertainty. These occurrence
areas are used to value patches of habitat.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
7843 N/A Larvae Sighting 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
7844 N/A Breeding/Courtship 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
7845 N/A Occupied Habitat 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Somes
Calephelis borealis
Northern Metalmark
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Northern Metalmark’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius
was formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5159 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5160 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5161 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5162 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5163 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, B.E. and L. Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey.
Rutger’s University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
Bisignano, M. 2006. Northern Metalmark (Calephelis borealis) Habitat Restoration on
Private Lands: 2005 Survey Results and Habitat Management Recommendations. Report to
The New Jersey Chapter of the Nature Conservancy.
The maximum distance that adult metalmarks disperse is approximately 2,200 meters (~1.4 miles).
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY.
N/A
Gochfeld, M. and J. Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey: a guide to their status,
distribution, conservation, and appreciation. Rutger’s University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Northern Metalmark. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia
of life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
Inferred Minimum Extent of habitat use: .5 km.
Opler, P.A. and V. Malikul. 1998. A guide to eastern butterflies. Houghton Mifflin. New
York, NY.
N/A
Scott, J. 1986. The butterflies of North America: a natural history and field guide. Stanford
University Press. Stanford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Enallagma recurvatum
Pine Barrens Bluet
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6219 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6220 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6221 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6222 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6223 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6224 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Gomphus quadricolor
Rapids Clubtail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6231 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6232 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6233 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6234 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6235 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6236 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Epitheca spinosa
Robust Baskettail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6255 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6256 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6257 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6258 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6259 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6260 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Gomphus rogersi
Sable Clubtail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6279 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6280 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6281 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6282 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6283 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6284 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Enallagma pictum
Scarlet Bluet
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6285 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6286 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6287 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6288 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6289 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6290 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Gomphus septima
Septima's Clubtail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6303 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6304 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6305 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6306 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6307 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6308 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Boloria selene myrina
Silver-bordered Fritillary
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ. Natureserve recommends a buffer of 2km when actual extent is unknown (Nartureserve
2010).
Due to the absence of literature concerning Silver-bordered Fritillary’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter
radius was formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist
responsible for reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the
distances that these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on
minimum distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5068 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5069 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5070 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5071 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5072 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, B.E. and L. Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. Rutgers
University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY.
N/A
Gochfeld, M. and J. Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey. A Guide to Their Status,
Distribution, Conservation, and Appreciation. Rutgers University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Silver-bordered Fritillary. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online
encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia.
Available http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
Inferred Minimum Extent of habitat use: 2km.
Opler, P.A. and V. Malikul. 1998. A Guide to Eastern Butterflies. Houghton Mifflin
Company. New York, NY.
N/A
Scott, J.A. 1986. The Butterflies of North America, a Natural History and Field Guide.
Stanford University Press. Standford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 3/30/2010
Last researched by: Somes
Somatochlora elongata
Ski-tailed Emerald
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6309 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6310 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6311 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6312 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6313 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6314 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Rhionaeschna mutata
Spatterdock Darner
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6333 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6334 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6335 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6336 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6337 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6338 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Aeshna subarctica
Subarctic Darner
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6509 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6510 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6511 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6512 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6513 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6514 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Calopteryx amata
Superb Jewelwing
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6369 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6370 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6371 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6372 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6373 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6374 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Cordulegaster erronea
Tiger Spiketail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6381 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6382 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6383 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6384 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6385 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6386 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Euphyes bimacula
Two-spotted Skipper
Justification:
The species occurrence area is generally based on the average home range/territory size, or other appropriate
life-history parameter as reported in peer-reviewed scientific literature or from other information obtained
through ENSP research. When searching the scientific literature to gather information to support the
occurrence area polygon size, efforts were made to select research that was conducted in habitat types similar
to those found in NJ.
Due to the absence of literature concerning Two-spotted Skipper’s spatial requirements, a 500-meter radius
was formulated based upon the information available and the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for
reviewing these species within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program. Given the distances that
these species are known to disperse, 500 meters is a highly conservative measure and based on minimum
distance that these species are known to disperse with ease.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5167 N/A Casual Flyby 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5168 N/A Pupae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5164 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5165 N/A Nectaring 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
5166 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Beans, B.E. and L. Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey.
Rutger’s University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
ENSP Biologist Expert Opinion: R. Somes and D. Golden
N/A
Glassberg, J. 1999. Butterflies Through Binoculars, the East. Oxford University Press. New
York, NY
N/A
Gochfeld, M. and J. Burger. 1997. Butterflies of New Jersey: a guide to their status,
distribution, conservation, and appreciation. Rutger’s University Press. New Brunswick, NJ.
N/A
NatureServe. 2009. Two-spotted Skipper. In: NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia
of life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available
http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: March 17, 2010 ).
Inferred Minimum Extent of habitat use: 1 km.
Opler, P.A. and V. Malikul. 1998. A guide to eastern butterflies. Houghton Mifflin. New
York, NY.
N/A
Scott, J. 1986. The butterflies of North America: a natural history and field guide. Stanford
University Press. Stanford, CA.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Somatochlora williamsoni
Williamson's Emerald
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6417 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6418 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6419 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6420 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6421 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6422 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Stylurus scudderi
Zebra Clubtail
Justification:
For many species that value habitat patches in the Landscape Project Maps, insufficient information exists in
the scientific literature to support the designation of an occurrence area. In the Landscape Project, an
occurrence area equates to the area a species needs to fulfill it's life history requirements (breeding, resting,
feeding). Due to the absence of literature concerning Odonate species' spatial requirements, a 500 meter
radius was formulated based upon the expert opinion of the biologist responsible for reviewing these species
within the NJ Endangered and Nongame Species Program.
Literature:
Insecta
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6423 N/A Breeding/Courtship 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6424 N/A Exuviae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6425 N/A Territorial Display 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6426 N/A Foraging 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6427 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6428 N/A Larvae Sighting 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Golden
Neotoma magister
Allegheny Woodrat
Justification:
The preferred habitat of the Allegheny woodrat in NJ is rocky areas within deciduous forests. Woodrats
make their dens, or middens, within the crevices and spaces between boulders at the base of cliffs or in rock
outcrops. They forage in vegetated areas adjacent to their dens. The Indiana DNR (2007) states that
Allegheny woodrats rarely travel more than 100 meters from their den sites. The PA Game Commission
(2006) recommends that a 150 meter primary buffer be protected from the edge of the surface rock zone
where the dens are located. The most comprehensive research to determine home range for Allegheny
woodrats was conducted by Castleberry (2000) in the central Appalachians. Thirty-four woodrats were
tracked using radio telemetry and the mean topographic home range was 4.4 ha. The maximum distance
traveled from the den while foraging averaged 151 m.
Literature:
Mammalia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4725 N/A Capture Location 150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4726 N/A Live Individual
Sighting
150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4727 N/A On Road 150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4728 N/A Physical evidence 150 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
Butchkoski, C. 2006. Allegheny woodrat research/management. Annual Job Report. Project
Code No. 06718, Job Code No. 71801. 27 pp.
Recommends a 150 meter primary buffer extending out from the edge of the surface rock zone.
Castleberry, S.B. 2000. Conservation and management of the Allegheny woodrat in the
central Appalachians, Dissertation, West Virginia University, [On-line Abstract].
Available:https://kitkat.wvu.edu/etd/documentdata.eTD?documentid=1503
Thirty-four woodrats were radio tracked during 1998-99 and the mean home range was 4.4 ha.
Indiana Department of Natural Resources. 2007. The Allegheny woodrat (On-line). Accessed
April 4, 2007 at: http://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/publications/lifeseries/wdrat.htm
States that Allegheny woodrats rarely travel farther than 100 meters from their dens.
Date researched: 4/1/2007
Last researched by: Valent
Lynx rufus
Bobcat
Justification:
Bobcat home range sizes are highly variable, both geographically and intrasexually in the same geographic
area particularly if suitable habitat components have a patchy distribution (Lovallo 1999). The home range
size of males is generally larger than that of females. In New Jersey’s Highlands region, the annual home
range of an adult male in 2002 was 121 km2 with a core of 19 km2. The annual home range (kernel home
range) of an adult male in the Ridge and Valley physiographic province of northwest NJ in 2004 was 50.3
km2 with a core of 9.6 km2. The annual home range of an adult female in 2003 in the Highlands region was
90 km2 with a core of 11.7 km2. The annual home range of an adult female in 2005 in the Ridge and Valley
physiographic province was 22.6 km2 with a core of 2.8 km2. We apply a 25 km2 buffer (2.82 km radius)
around bobcat sightings, which is larger than the core area we estimated for a male and female bobcat in the
state, and midway between the male and female home range sizes Lovallo (2000) estimated in north central
Pennsylvania. It is a conservative estimate based on sizes reported for bobcats in the northeastern United
States (Lovallo 2000).
Literature:
Mammalia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4752 N/A Capture Location 2.82 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4753 N/A Live Individual
Sighting
2.82 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4754 N/A On Road 2.82 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4755 N/A Physical evidence 2.82 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
8359 N/A Telemetry: Home
Range
Kernel
Home
Range
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Stays as is Yes
Conner, M., B. Plowman, B.D. Leopold, C. Lovell. 1999. Influence of time-in-residence on
home range and habitat use of bobcats. Journal of Wildlife Management 63(1):261-269.
In east central Mississippi the male home range was 15.34 + 2.12 km2 and 15.67 + 2.61 km2 in
consecutive years. The female annual home range was 7.81 + .91 km2 and 6.40 + .57 km2 in
consecutive years
Litvaitis, J.A., J.A. Sherburne, J.A. Bissonette. 1986. Bobcat habitat use and home range size
in relation to prey density. Journal of Wildlife Management 50(1):110-117.
In Maine the average home range size of males was 95.7 km2 and that of females was 31.2 km2.
Lovallo, J.M. 1999. Multivariate models of bobcat habitat selection for Pennsylvania
Landscape. Ph.D. dissertation. The Pennsylvania State University, University Park. 146pp.
Attributes the highly variable home range estimates of both males and females to the patchy
distribution of suitable habitat components.
Lovallo, M.J. 2000. Bobcat home range size and intraspecific social relationships.
Pennsylvania Game Commission Bureau of Wildlife Management Research Division Project
Annual Job Report: Bobcat Research/Management 06630.
Median female home range was 16 km2 (MCP) and median male home range was 42 km2 (MCP).
Lovallo (2000) also summarizes other home range sizes in the northeastern U.S. as being 36-326
km2 for males in New York State, 71-112 km2 for males in Massachusetts, and 28-33 km2 for
females in Maine.
Lovallo, M.J., E.M. Anderson. 1996. Bobcat (Lynx rufus) home range size and habitat use in
northwest Wisconsin. American Midland Naturalist 135(2): 241-252.
In northwestern Wisconsin the annual male home ranges were 60.4 km2 + 23.4 km2 and the female
home ranges were 28.5 km2 + 3.7 km2.
Date researched: 9/19/2008
Last researched by: Valent
Balaenoptera physalus
Fin Whale
Justification:
The baleen whales which occur off the NJ coast are, for the most part, migrating between summer feeding
grounds in the north and winter breeding and/or calving grounds in the south. Foraging has been documented
for humpback whales off the NJ coast and may also be engaged in by fin whales, but the bulk of foraging
behavior occurs farther north and perhaps offshore (foraging in NJ waters may be opportunistic). Northern
Right Whales, whose preferred diet consists of calanoid copepods, are not thought to feed in NJ waters.
Movements are patterned and consistent, but movements of individuals in a given year may vary according to
their energetic and reproductive condition, climatic factors, etc. Thus, due to the migratory behavior of these
species in NJ waters, as well as the tremendous distance which they are capable of traveling within relatively
short spans of time (Mate 1999; NMFS 1991; Watkins 1996), formulating a Species Occurrence Area (SOA)
based upon a home range is both impractical and inappropriate for an area which primarily functions as a
migratory corridor. However, in order to provide a basis by which these species may best be represented
within the current SOA framework, the documented average daily distance traveled will be used to determine
the SOA radius. Due to the paucity of data regarding migratory movements of baleen whales between
summering and wintering grounds in the northwest Atlantic, an extremely conservative SOA radius of 25 km
was chosen.
Literature:
Mammalia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
7730 N/A Stranding 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
7731 N/A Foraging Area 25 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
7733 N/A Live Individual
Sighting
25 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Mate, Bruce R., and B.A. Lagerquist. 1999. Movements of North Pacific blue whales during
the feeding season off southern California and their southern fall migration. Marine Mammal
Science 15(4): 1246-1257.
The satellite-acquired locations of 10 blue whales tagged with Argos radio tags indicated an overall
average speed of individual whales ranging from 58 to 172km/day. Migratory individuals covered
greater average distance as opposed to clustered or foraging movements.
Merrick, Richard L., P.J. Clapham, T. Cole, P. Gerrior, and R.M. Pace III. 2001.
Identification of Seasonal Area Management Zones for North Atlantic Right Whale
Conservation. Northeast Fisheries Science Center Reference Document 01-14.
Within the northern right whale’s summer foraging habitat, the size of an area necessary to contain a
right whale’s movement over a 1-2 week period was calculated to be a 15 nautical mile (27.78)
radius.
National Marine Fisheries Service. 1991. Recovery Plan for the Humpback Whale (Megaptera
novaeangliae). Prepared by the Humpback Whale Recovery Team for the National Marine
Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, Maryland. 105 pp.
Estimated migration speeds of humpback whales migrating between summering and wintering areas
were: 78 days (2.38 km/hr) for a 4,500 km distance between Hawaii and Alaska; and 3.29 km/hr
and 2.28 km/hr for two individuals migrating between the Greater Antilles and Massachusetts Bay.
Watkins, William A., J. Sigurjonsson, D. Wartzok, R.R. Maiefski, P.W. Howey, and M.A.
Daher. 1996. Fin whale tracked by satellite off Iceland. Marine Mammal Science 12(4): 564-
569.
The average daily distance of a fin whale tagged with a satellite transmitter was 36 km (range 1.9
km - 156.6 km, median 23 km) over a period of 45 days.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davenport
Megaptera novaeangliae
Humpback Whale
Justification:
The baleen whales which occur off the NJ coast are, for the most part, migrating between summer feeding
grounds in the north and winter breeding and/or calving grounds in the south. Foraging has been documented
for humpback whales off the NJ coast and may also be engaged in by fin whales, but the bulk of foraging
behavior occurs farther north and perhaps offshore (foraging in NJ waters may be opportunistic). Northern
Right Whales, whose preferred diet consists of calanoid copepods, are not thought to feed in NJ waters.
Movements are patterned and consistent, but movements of individuals in a given year may vary according to
their energetic and reproductive condition, climatic factors, etc. Thus, due to the migratory behavior of these
species in NJ waters, as well as the tremendous distance which they are capable of traveling within relatively
short spans of time (Mate 1999; NMFS 1991; Watkins 1996), formulating a Species Occurrence Area (SOA)
based upon a home range is both impractical and inappropriate for an area which primarily functions as a
migratory corridor. However, in order to provide a basis by which these species may best be represented
within the current SOA framework, the documented average daily distance traveled will be used to determine
the SOA radius. Due to the paucity of data regarding migratory movements of baleen whales between
summering and wintering grounds in the northwest Atlantic, an extremely conservative SOA radius of 25 km
was chosen.
Literature:
Mammalia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
7738 Non-
Breeding
Foraging Area 25 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
7739 Non-
Breeding
Stranding 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
7741 Non-
Breeding
Live Individual
Sighting
25 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Mate, Bruce R., and B.A. Lagerquist. 1999. Movements of North Pacific blue whales during
the feeding season off southern California and their southern fall migration. Marine Mammal
Science 15(4): 1246-1257.
The satellite-acquired locations of 10 blue whales tagged with Argos radio tags indicated an overall
average speed of individual whales ranging from 58 to 172km/day. Migratory individuals covered
greater average distance as opposed to clustered or foraging movements.
Merrick, Richard L., P.J. Clapham, T. Cole, P. Gerrior, and R.M. Pace III. 2001.
Identification of Seasonal Area Management Zones for North Atlantic Right Whale
Conservation. Northeast Fisheries Science Center Reference Document 01-14.
Within the northern right whale’s summer foraging habitat, the size of an area necessary to contain a
right whale’s movement over a 1-2 week period was calculated to be a 15 nautical mile (27.78)
radius.
National Marine Fisheries Service. 1991. Recovery Plan for the Humpback Whale (Megaptera
novaeangliae). Prepared by the Humpback Whale Recovery Team for the National Marine
Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, Maryland. 105 pp.
Estimated migration speeds of humpback whales migrating between summering and wintering areas
were: 78 days (2.38 km/hr) for a 4,500 km distance between Hawaii and Alaska; and 3.29 km/hr
and 2.28 km/hr for two individuals migrating between the Greater Antilles and Massachusetts Bay.
Watkins, William A., J. Sigurjonsson, D. Wartzok, R.R. Maiefski, P.W. Howey, and M.A.
Daher. 1996. Fin whale tracked by satellite off Iceland. Marine Mammal Science 12(4): 564-
569.
The average daily distance of a fin whale tagged with a satellite transmitter was 36 km (range 1.9
km - 156.6 km, median 23 km) over a period of 45 days.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davenport
Myotis sodalis
Indiana Bat
Justification:
Fall roosting and foraging distance from hibernacula ranged from 2.4km-6.8km with an average distance of
4.33km. A 4km radius buffer was therefore selected to protect foraging and roosting habitat surrounding
hibernacula. Summer roosting and foraging distances ranged from 0.679km-5km to create an average radius
buffer of 2km.
Literature:
Mammalia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4781 Undetermi
ned
Hibernaculum 4.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4782 Undetermi
ned
Inactive Season
Sighting
2.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4783 Undetermi
ned
Maternity Colony 2.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4786 Undetermi
ned
Active Season Sighting 2.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
8509 Undetermi
ned
Roost Site 2.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Callahan, E.V., R.D. Drobney, and R.L. Clawson. 1997. Selection of summer roosting sites by
Indiana bats (Myotis sodalis) in Missouri. J. Mamm. 78:818-825.
The furthest distance documented between roosts occupied by bats within a single maternity colony
was 5 km.
Gardner, J.E., J.D. Garner, and J.E. Hofmann. 1991a. Summer roost selection and roosting
behavior of Myotis sodalis (Indiana bat) in Illinois. Unpublished report, Illinois Natural
History Survey, Champaign, Illinois.
Radiotelemetry showed that during the maternity period, home range of Indiana bats is generally no
larger than 2 km in breadth.
Gardner, J.E., J.D. Garner, and J.E. Hofmmann. 1991b. Summary of Myotis sodalis summer
habitat studies in Illinois: with recommendations for impact assessment. Special Report.
Illinois Natural History Survey, Illinois Dept. of Conservation. Champaign, Illinois. 28 pp.
Stream, associated with floodplain forests, and impounded bodies of water are preferred foraging
habitats for pregnant and lactating Indiana bats, some of which may fly up to 2.5 km from upland
roosts. Mean distance moved by reproductively active females between foraging and roosting
habitat was 1.04 km. Maximum distance moved by reproductively active females between foraging
and roosting habitat was 2.40 km.
Kiser, J.D. and C.L. Elliott. 1996. Foraging habitat, food habits, and roost tree characteristics
of the Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) during autumn in Johnson County, Kentucky. Final
report, Kentucky Dept. of Fish and Wildl. Resources, Frankfort, Kentucky. 65 pp.
In Kentucky, Kiser and Elliott found male Indiana bats roosting primarily in dead trees on upper
slopes and ridgetops within 2.4 km of their hibernaculum. In the fall, male Indiana bats tend to roost
and forage in upland and ridgetop forests, but may also forage in valley and riparian forest;
movements of 2.5-6.8 km have been reported in Kentucky and Missouri.
Menzel, J.M., W.M. Ford, M.A. Menzel, T.C. Carter, J.E. Gardner, J.D. Garner, J.E.
Hofmann. 2005. Summer habitat use and home-range analysis of the endangered Indiana bat.
Journal of Wildlife Management 69(1):430-436.
Home ranges were determined from radio telemetry of 7 female and 4 male Indiana bats in Illinois.
No significant differences were found in home-range size between male and female bats or between
study years. The mean home-range size for the Indiana bats tracked was 144.7 ha, which
calculates to a radius of 0.679 km.
Stihler, C. West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, pers observ. October 1996.
Reference excerpted from USFWS Indiana Bat Revised Recovery Plan, March 1999.
During September in West Virginia, male Indiana bats roosted within 5.6km [of hibernacula] in
trees near ridgetops, and often switched roost trees from day to day.
Date researched: 6/1/2006
Last researched by: Craddock
Eubalaena glacialis
North Atlantic Right Whale
Justification:
The baleen whales which occur off the NJ coast are, for the most part, migrating between summer feeding
grounds in the north and winter breeding and/or calving grounds in the south. Foraging has been documented
for humpback whales off the NJ coast and may also be engaged in by fin whales, but the bulk of foraging
behavior occurs farther north and perhaps offshore (foraging in NJ waters may be opportunistic). Northern
Right Whales, whose preferred diet consists of calanoid copepods, are not thought to feed in NJ waters.
Movements are patterned and consistent, but movements of individuals in a given year may vary according to
their energetic and reproductive condition, climatic factors, etc. Thus, due to the migratory behavior of these
species in NJ waters, as well as the tremendous distance which they are capable of traveling within relatively
short spans of time (Mate 1999; NMFS 1991; Watkins 1996), formulating a Species Occurrence Area (SOA)
based upon a home range is both impractical and inappropriate for an area which primarily functions as a
migratory corridor. However, in order to provide a basis by which these species may best be represented
within the current SOA framework, the documented average daily distance traveled will be used to determine
the SOA radius. Due to the paucity of data regarding migratory movements of baleen whales between
summering and wintering grounds in the northwest Atlantic, an extremely conservative SOA radius of 25 km
was chosen.
Literature:
Mammalia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
7742 Non-
Breeding
Live Individual
Sighting
25 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
7743 Non-
Breeding
Foraging Area 25 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
7745 Non-
Breeding
Stranding 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
Mate, Bruce R., and B.A. Lagerquist. 1999. Movements of North Pacific blue whales during
the feeding season off southern California and their southern fall migration. Marine Mammal
Science 15(4): 1246-1257.
The satellite-acquired locations of 10 blue whales tagged with Argos radio tags indicated an overall
average speed of individual whales ranging from 58 to 172km/day. Migratory individuals covered
greater average distance as opposed to clustered or foraging movements.
Merrick, Richard L., P.J. Clapham, T. Cole, P. Gerrior, and R.M. Pace III. 2001.
Identification of Seasonal Area Management Zones for North Atlantic Right Whale
Conservation. Northeast Fisheries Science Center Reference Document 01-14.
Within the northern right whale’s summer foraging habitat, the size of an area necessary to contain a
right whale’s movement over a 1-2 week period was calculated to be a 15 nautical mile (27.78)
radius.
National Marine Fisheries Service. 1991. Recovery Plan for the Humpback Whale (Megaptera
novaeangliae). Prepared by the Humpback Whale Recovery Team for the National Marine
Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, Maryland. 105 pp.
Estimated migration speeds of humpback whales migrating between summering and wintering areas
were: 78 days (2.38 km/hr) for a 4,500 km distance between Hawaii and Alaska; and 3.29 km/hr
and 2.28 km/hr for two individuals migrating between the Greater Antilles and
Massachusetts Bay.
Watkins, William A., J. Sigurjonsson, D. Wartzok, R.R. Maiefski, P.W. Howey, and M.A.
Daher. 1996. Fin whale tracked by satellite off Iceland. Marine Mammal Science 12(4): 564-
569.
The average daily distance of a fin whale tagged with a satellite transmitter was 36 km (range 1.9
km - 156.6 km, median 23 km) over a period of 45 days.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davenport
Myotis septentrionalis
Northern Myotis
Justification:
Northern long-eared bats use a wide variety of forested habitats in summer, including woodlands of variable
tree densities and canopy closures as well as forest edges, riparian zones, and interspersed areas of wetlands,
fields, and linear wooded corridors. They roost in live or dead trees >3 inches dbh that have sloughing bark,
cracks, crevices, or cavities. Northern long-eared bats have also been found roosting in buildings, barns,
bridges, and bat houses. The species' summer home range is typically within a 3 mile (4.8 km) radius of a
capture location or positive acoustic identification, or within 1.5 miles (2.4 km) of a roost (USFWS 2014).
For radio-tracked northern long-eared bats (n>300), the distance between foraging areas and roost trees
ranged from 0.07 km (0.04 mi) to 4.8 km (3.0 mi), with a mean distance of around 1.7 km (1.1 mi). Roost
switching typically occurs every two days or so (Carter and Feldhamer 2005; Foster and Kurta 1999; Sasse
and Pekins 1996; Timpone et al. 2010).
Migratory distances of 5-168 miles have been documented among northern long-eared bats, and 40-50 miles
is typical (USFWS 2014). Spring staging and fall swarming areas consist of wooded habitats within 5 miles
(8 km) of a hibernaculum (USFWS 2014). Due to a paucity of published information on spring staging/fall
swarming and foraging ranges surrounding hibernacula, we refer to the information available on the closely
related Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis), which shares a similar life history with the northern long-eared bat, and
therefore apply the same 4.0 km hibernaculum buffer at this time.
Literature:
Mammalia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
7597 Undetermi
ned
Maternity Colony 2.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
7598 Undetermi
ned
Hibernaculum 4.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
7601 Undetermi
ned
Inactive Season
Sighting
2.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
7602 Undetermi
ned
Active Season Sighting 2.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
8508 Undetermi
ned
Roost Site 2.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Carter, T. C. and G. A. Feldhamer. 2005. Roost tree use by maternity colonies of Indiana
bats and northern long-eared bats in southern Illinois. Forest Ecology and Management.
219: 259-268.
N/A
Foster, R.W., and A. Kurta. 1999. Roosting ecology of the northern bat (Myotis
septentrionalis) and comparisons with the endangered Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis). Journal
of Mammalogy 80: 659-672.
N/A
Jackson, J. L. 2004. Effects of Wildlife Stand Improvements and Prescribed Burning on Bat
and Insect Communities: Buffalo Ranger District, Ozark-St. Francis National Forest,
Arkansas. M.S. Thesis. Arkansas State University. 162 pp.
Thirty northern long-eared bats were tracked to 259 roosts; the maximum distance traveled within a
summer home range was 1.7 miles.
Kiser, J.D. and C.L. Elliott. 1996. Foraging habitat, food habits, and roost tree characteristics
of the Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) during autumn in Johnson County, Kentucky. Final
report, Kentucky Dept. of Fish and Wildl. Resources, Frankfort, Kentucky. 65 pp.
In Kentucky, Kiser and Elliott found male Indiana bats roosting primarily in dead trees on upper
slopes and ridgetops within 2.4 km of their hibernaculum. In the fall, male Indiana bats tend to roost
and forage in upland and ridgetop forests, but may also forage in valley and riparian forest;
movements of 2.5-6.8 km have been reported in Kentucky and Missouri.
Sasse, D.B., and P.J. Pekins. 1996. Summer roosting ecology of northern long-eared bats
(Myotis septentrionalis) in the White Mountain National Forest. Pp. 91-101 in Proceedings of
the bats and forests symposium (R.M.R. Barclay and R.M. Brigham, eds.). British Columbia
Ministry of Forests, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
In New Hampshire, the mean distance between foraging areas and roost trees was 602 m (0.37
miles) (p. 95). Canopy closure at roost trees was greater than 75 percent.
Stihler, C. West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, pers observ. October 1996. Reference
excerpted from USFWS Indiana Bat Revised Recovery Plan, March 1999.
During September in West Virginia, male Indiana bats roosted within 5.6km [of hibernacula] in
trees near ridgetops, and often switched roost trees from day to day.
Timpone, J.C., J.G. Boyles, K.L. Murray, D.P. Aubrey, and L.W. Robbins. 2010. Overlap in
roosting habits of Indiana bats (Myotis sodalis) and Northern bats (Myotis septentrionalis).
American Midland Naturalist. 163: 115-123.
In Missouri, 13 northern long-eared bats were tracked to 39 roosts, which were an average 1.7 km
(1.1 mi) from the point of capture (range 0.07-4.8 km (0.04-3.0 mi). The mean distance traveled
between roost trees was 0.67 km (0.42 mi) (range 0.05-3.9 km [0.03-2.4 mi]). Canopy coverage at
roosts averaged 56 percent.
US Fish and Wildlife Service. 2014. Northern long-eared bat interim conference and
planning guidance, USFWS Regions 2, 3, 4, 5, & 6. 67 pp.
N/A
Date researched: 6/12/2015
Last researched by: Hall
Acipenser oxyrinchus
Atlantic Sturgeon
Justification:
Little is known about the movement patterns of Atlantic sturgeon in the Delaware River estuary and along the
coast. The Atlantic sturgeon is an anadromous fish species, migrating from open ocean to fresh or brackish
water to spawn. Young may spend up to four years in their natal river before migrating to sea. Recent sonic
tagging studies suggest that a reproducing population still exists in the Delaware River, with spawning
occurring much farther upriver than during the height of late 1800’s fishery. Though an exact spawning area
has not been determined, at least one Atlantic sturgeon was tracked migrating in the Bordentown area during
the spawning season. Following presumed spawning, tracking data indicate that the lower, poly-mesohaline
portions of Delaware Bay serve as habitat for adults. In addition, the lower Delaware River is thought to
serve as an important summer feeding ground for immature sturgeon.
Coastal movement of Atlantic sturgeon remains unclear. According to Fox et al. (2009), the higher salinity
regions at the mouth of the Delaware Estuary serve as critical habitat for Atlantic sturgeon from multiple
river systems. Despite mixing in coastal waters, tagging records indicate that Atlantic sturgeon return to their
natal rivers to spawn. Sturgeon tagged in the lower Delaware River have been recaptured in coastal waters
form North Carolina to Maine. Since data are limited, the SOA for coastal/ocean adults is an extremely
conservative estimate of habitat usage and how far Atlantic sturgeon are capable of migrating. For example,
ocean migrations of up to 1,450 kilometers have been recorded, though it would impractical to apply such as
distance here. Since the Atlantic sturgeon is a newly listed species (Federal and State Endangered as of April
6, 2012), and information in Biotics is lacking, SOA’s will be refined as location and movement data are
acquired. The SOA distances for early life stages and juvenile/adult movement within the river system are
based upon SOA distances chosen for shortnose sturgeon.
Osteichthyes
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
6433 N/A Nursery Area - Young-
of-year Sighting
5 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6434 N/A Migration Corridor -
Adult Sighting
30 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6435 N/A Summering Area -
Adult Sighting
30 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6436 N/A Spawning Area - Adult
Sighting
30 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6437 N/A Migration Corridor -
Juvenile Sighting
10 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6438 N/A Nursery Area - Larvae
Sighting
5 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6440 N/A Spawning Area - Egg
Sighting
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
6441 N/A Summering Area -
Juvenile Sighting
10 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Literature:
Atlantic Sturgeon Status Review Team. 2007. Status Review of Atlantic Sturgeon (Acipenser
oxyrinchus oxyrinchus). Report to National Marine Fisheries Service, Northeast Regional
Office. February 23, 2007.
Delaware River movement, spawning area.
Bain, M.B. 1997. Atlantic and shortnose sturgeons in the Hudson River: common and
divergent life history attributes. Environmental Biology of Fishes 48:347-358.
N/A
Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife. 2009. Delaware River Atlantic Sturgeon Research
Fact Sheet, DNREC website.
N/A
Dovel and Berggren 1983. Atlantic sturgeon of the Hudson estuary, New York, New York.
Fish and Game Journal 30:140-172.
Migration distance.
Fisher, M.T., Jacobini, J. and C.A. Shirey. A telemetry study of late stage juvenile Atlantic
sturgeon, Acipenser oxyrinchus: seasonal movements and habitat use in the Delaware estuary
in 2007 and 2008 with comparisons to a similar telemetry study in 1997 and 1998 (Abstract
only). Presented at 1st Symposium on Atlantic Sturgeon, Seaboard Fisheries Institute, Feb.
23-25, 2009, Newark, DE.
General movement.
Fox, D., Brown. L.B., and P.C. Simpson. Life after the party: Atlantic sturgeon in the
Delaware River (Abstract only). Presented at 1st Symposium on Atlantic Sturgeon, Seaboard
Fisheries Institute, Feb. 23-25, 2009, Newark, DE.
General movement.
Gilbert, C.R. 1989. Species profiles: life histories and environmental requirements of coastal
fishes and invertebrates (mid-Atlantic bight) - Atlantic and shortnose sturgeons. U.S. Fish
Wildl. Serv. Biol. Rep. 82(11.122). U.S. Army Corps of Engineers TR EL-82-4. 28 pp.
Eggs demersal adhesive, nothing known about larvae.
Date researched: 6/11/2012
Last researched by: Bowers-Altman
Acipenser brevirostrum
Shortnose Sturgeon
Justification:
Within the Delaware River, shortnose sturgeon have a complex life cycle wherein they may, depending on
life stage, migrate between overwintering areas within the upper tidal portion of the river near Trenton,
spawning areas upstream within the nontidal portion, and additional areas for foraging and migration as far
south as Philadelphia and northern reaches of the Delaware Bay. Shortnose sturgeon have limited
movements and a restricted home range within their river and estuary (Kynard 1997), thus only the Delaware
River, Hudson River and Delaware Bay proper and no tributaries, are to be included within the species
occurrence area.
Literature:
Osteichthyes
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4931 Freshwater Summering Area -
Juvenile Sighting
10 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4932 Freshwater Overwintering Area -
Juvenile Sighting
10 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4933 Freshwater Migration Corridor -
Juvenile Sighting
10 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4934 Freshwater Nursery Area - Young-
of-year Sighting
5 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4935 Freshwater Migration Corridor -
Adult Sighting
30 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4936 Freshwater Spawning Area - Adult
Sighting
30 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4937 Freshwater Summering Area -
Adult Sighting
30 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4938 Freshwater Nursery Area - Larvae
Sighting
5 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4939 Freshwater Spawning Area - Egg
Sighting
300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4940 Freshwater Overwintering Area -
Adult Sighting
10 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
Kynard, Boyd. 1997. Life history, latitudinal patterns, and status of the shortnose sturgeon,
Acipenser brevirostrum. Environmental Biology of Fishes. 48: 319-334.
Young-of-year are non-migratory for about 1 year (residency period within the nursery area).
Juveniles show similar spatio-temporal patterns of habitat use as adults (similarity of home ranges).
Spawning adults typically travel 200 km or more upstream.
O’Herron, J.C., K.W. Able, and R.W. Hastings. 1993. Movements of shortnose sturgeon
(Acipenser brevirostrum) in the Delaware River. Estuaries. 16 (2): 235-240.
Typical overwintering movements were localized between 0.6 - 9.6 km (mean = 4.6 km).
Spawning to post-spawning movement = 10 - 30 km.
Seibel, D. 1993. Habitat selection, movements, and response to illumination of shortnose
sturgeon in the Connecticut River. Masters Thesis, University of Massachusetts, Amherst,
Massachusetts.
As cited within: National Marine Fisheries Service. 1998. Recovery Plan for the Shortnose
Sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum). Prepared by the Shortnose Sturgeon Recovery Team for
the National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, Maryland. 104 pages. p. 28.
In the Connecticut River, adult and juvenile summer home ranges are about 10 km. Winter range is
usually less than 2 km.
Date researched: 2/1/2007
Last researched by: Davenport
Chelonia mydas
Atlantic Green Turtle
Justification:
The Atlantic green, Atlantic loggerhead, and Atlantic ridley sea turtles both forage and migrate through NJ
waters. While movement specific to migration is largely confined off-shore, foraging may occur both off-
shore and within the neritic zone. The bulk of the scientific literature which pertains to determining a home
range size, is based upon lower latitude habitats, relatively young individuals, and is predominantly focused
on the Atlantic green turtle. Using the mean of the home range estimates from the studies detailed below and
creating an average based upon those figures, produces a 9.6 km radius as the basis for a species occurrence
area for these three species.
Literature:
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
7718 Undetermi
ned
Marine Telemetry:
Partial Activity Range
9.6 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Stays as is Yes
7719 Undetermi
ned
Dead Individual
Sighting
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
7721 Undetermi
ned
Occupied Habitat 9.6 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
8492 Undetermi
ned
Nesting Area 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
Blumenthal, J.M., J.L. Soloman, C.D. Bell, T.J. Austin, G. Ebanks-Petrie, M.S. Coyne, A.C.
Broderick, and B.J. Godley. 2006. Satellite tracking highlights the need for international
cooperation in marine turtle management. Endangered Species Research. 7: 1-11.
Migrations of mature marine turtles typically span hundreds or thousands of kilometers.
Godley, B.J., E.H.S.M. Lima, S. Akesson, A.C. Broderick, F. Glen, M.H. Godfrey, P. Luschi,
and G.C. Hays. 2003. Movement patterns of green turtles in Brazilian coastal waters
described by satellite tracking and flipper tagging. Marine Ecology Progress Series. 253: 279-
288.
The home range for some turtles feeding on macroalgae may encompass an area which spans 90 km
of coastline.
Kinzel, M.R. Green Sea Turtle Migration in the Gulf of Mexico. In: Marine Geography -
GIS for the Oceans and Seas. Breman, J. (Editor). ESRI Press.2002.
Home range for one individual was 2,745.63 sq km, while another was reported as being 336.317 sq
km.
Makowski, C., J.A. Seminoff, and M. Salmon. 2006. Home range and habitat use of juvenile
Atlantic green turtles (Chelonia mydas) on shallow reef habitats in Palm Beach, Florida,
USA. Marine Biology. 148: 1167-1179.
Home range areas measured with 100% minimum convex polygon and 95% fixed kernel estimators
varied from 0.69 to 5.05 sq km (mean = 2.38 sq km) and 0.73 to 4.89 sq km (mean = 2.09 sq km),
respectively. Averaging the mean results of both methods produces a home range size of 2.24 sq
km.
Mendonca, M.T. 1983. Movements and feeding ecology of immature green turtles (Chelonia
mydas) in a Floida lagoon. Copeia. 1013-1023.
Average home range = 2.88 sq km.
Renaud, M.L., J.A. Carpenter. 1994. Movements and submergence patterns of loggerhead
turtles (Caretta caretta) in the Gulf of Mexico determined through satellite telemetry.
Bulletin of Marine Science. 55: 1-15.
Average home range = 0.77 sq km.
Schmid, J.R. A.B. Bolten, K.A. Bjorndal, W.J. Lindberg, H.F. Percival, and P.D. Zwick.
2003. Home range and habitat use by Kemp’s ridley turtles in west-central Florida. Journal
of Wildlife Management. 67: 196-206.
Radio and sonic telemetry were utilized on subadult Kemp's ridley turtles to investigate home-range
size and habitat use in the coastal waters of west-central Florida from 1994 to 1996. Nine turtles
were tracked for up to 70 days after release and were found to occupy 5-30 sq km foraging ranges.
Seminoff, J.A., A. Resendiz, W.J. Nichols. 2002. Home range of green turtles, Chelonia
mydas, at a coastal foraging area in the Gulf of California, Mexico. Marine Ecology progress
Series. 242: 253-265.
Average home range = 16.62 sq km.
Whiting, S.D. and J.D. Miller. 1998. Short term foraging ranges of adult green turtles
(Chelonia mydas). Journal of Herpetology. 32(3): 330-337.
Adult green turtles may forage over larger areas than juveniles.
Mean foraging range = 315 ha (range = 84 - 850 ha).
Mean distance traveled per day = 3.0 km (range = 0.9 - 4.9 km).
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davenport
Dermochelys coriacea
Atlantic Leatherback
Justification:
Leatherback turtles have the largest range of any living reptile and have been documented to travel thousands
of miles within a given year (Eckert 2006). Although no nesting behavior, nor any other terrestrial activity,
occurs within NJ, Atlantic leatherbacks both forage in and migrate through NJ off-shore and coastal waters.
Due to the great distance which they are capable of traveling within relatively short spans of time,
formulating a Species Occurrence Area (SOA) based upon a home range is difficult for a species whose home
range includes an entire ocean basin. However, in order to provide a basis by which this species may best be
represented within the current SOA framework, the documented average daily distance traveled will be used
to determine the SOA radius. Due to the paucity of data regarding movements of leatherback turtles in the
northwest Atlantic, an extremely conservative SOA radius of 25 km was chosen, based upon the lower end of
the range of distance covered per day, based upon Eckert (2006).
Literature:
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
7714 Undetermi
ned
Dead Individual
Sighting
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
7715 Undetermi
ned
Marine Telemetry:
Partial Activity Range
25 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Stays as is Yes
7717 Undetermi
ned
Occupied Habitat 25 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Blumenthal, J.M., J.L. Soloman, C.D. Bell, T.J. Austin, G. Ebanks-Petrie, M.S. Coyne, A.C.
Broderick, and B.J. Godley. 2006. Satellite tracking highlights the need for international
cooperation in marine turtle management. Endangered Species Research. 7: 1-11.
Migrations of mature marine turtles typically span hundreds or thousands of kilometers.
Eckert, S.A. 2006. High-use oceanic areas for Atlantic leatherback sea turtles (Dermochelys
coriacea) as identified using satellite telemetered location and dive information. Marine
Biology. 149: 1257-1267.
Nine adult females were tagged with satellite transmitters while they nested on the Caribbean Island
of Trinidad. Study animals ranged as far as the Flemish Cap, the Bay of Biscay, and off the coast of
northwestern Africa. Dividing each study animal’s minimum distance traveled by the number of
days in which it was tracked, produces a range of 23.69-43.08 km traveled per day and a mean of
34.75 km/day.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davenport
Caretta caretta
Atlantic Loggerhead
Justification:
The Atlantic green, Atlantic loggerhead, and Atlantic ridley sea turtles both forage and migrate through NJ
waters. While movement specific to migration is largely confined off-shore, foraging may occur both off-
shore and within the neritic zone. The bulk of the scientific literature which pertains to determining a home
range size, is based upon lower latitude habitats, relatively young individuals, and is predominantly focused
on the Atlantic green turtle. Using the mean of the home range estimates from the studies detailed below and
creating an average based upon those figures, produces a 9.6 km radius as the basis for a species occurrence
area for these three species.
Literature:
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
7706 Undetermi
ned
Dead Individual
Sighting
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
7707 Undetermi
ned
Marine Telemetry:
Partial Activity Range
9.6 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Stays as is Yes
7708 Undetermi
ned
Nesting Area 71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
7709 Undetermi
ned
Occupied Habitat 9.6 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Blumenthal, J.M., J.L. Soloman, C.D. Bell, T.J. Austin, G. Ebanks-Petrie, M.S. Coyne, A.C.
Broderick, and B.J. Godley. 2006. Satellite tracking highlights the need for international
cooperation in marine turtle management. Endangered Species Research. 7: 1-11.
Migrations of mature marine turtles typically span hundreds or thousands of kilometers.
Godley, B.J., E.H.S.M. Lima, S. Akesson, A.C. Broderick, F. Glen, M.H. Godfrey, P. Luschi,
and G.C. Hays. 2003. Movement patterns of green turtles in Brazilian coastal waters
described by satellite tracking and flipper tagging. Marine Ecology Progress Series. 253: 279-
288.
The home range for some turtles feeding on macroalgae may encompass an area which spans 90 km
of coastline.
Kinzel, M.R. Green Sea Turtle Migration in the Gulf of Mexico. In: Marine Geography -
GIS for the Oceans and Seas. Breman, J. (Editor). ESRI Press.2002.
Home range for one individual was 2,745.63 sq km, while another was reported as being 336.317 sq
km.
Makowski, C., J.A. Seminoff, and M. Salmon. 2006. Home range and habitat use of juvenile
Atlantic green turtles (Chelonia mydas) on shallow reef habitats in Palm Beach, Florida,
USA. Marine Biology. 148: 1167-1179.
Home range areas measured with 100% minimum convex polygon and 95% fixed kernel estimators
varied from 0.69 to 5.05 sq km (mean = 2.38 sq km) and 0.73 to 4.89 sq km (mean = 2.09 sq km),
respectively. Averaging the mean results of both methods produces a home range size of 2.24 sq
km.
Mendonca, M.T. 1983. Movements and feeding ecology of immature green turtles (Chelonia
mydas) in a Floida lagoon. Copeia. 1013-1023.
Average home range = 2.88 sq km.
Renaud, M.L., J.A. Carpenter. 1994. Movements and submergence patterns of loggerhead
turtles (Caretta caretta) in the Gulf of Mexico determined through satellite telemetry.
Bulletin of Marine Science. 55: 1-15.
Average home range = 0.77 sq km.
Schmid, J.R. A.B. Bolten, K.A. Bjorndal, W.J. Lindberg, H.F. Percival, and P.D. Zwick.
2003. Home range and habitat use by Kemp’s ridley turtles in west-central Florida. Journal
of Wildlife Management. 67: 196-206.
Radio and sonic telemetry were utilized on subadult Kemp's ridley turtles to investigate home-range
size and habitat use in the coastal waters of west-central Florida from 1994 to 1996. Nine turtles
were tracked for up to 70 days after release and were found to occupy 5-30 sq km foraging ranges.
Seminoff, J.A., A. Resendiz, W.J. Nichols. 2002. Home range of green turtles, Chelonia
mydas, at a coastal foraging area in the Gulf of California, Mexico. Marine Ecology progress
Series. 242: 253-265.
Average home range = 16.62 sq km.
Whiting, S.D. and J.D. Miller. 1998. Short term foraging ranges of adult green turtles
(Chelonia mydas). Journal of Herpetology. 32(3): 330-337.
Adult green turtles may forage over larger areas than juveniles.
Mean foraging range = 315 ha (range = 84 - 850 ha).
Mean distance traveled per day = 3.0 km (range = 0.9 - 4.9 km).
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davenport
Lepidochelys kempii
Atlantic Ridley
Justification:
The Atlantic green, Atlantic loggerhead, and Atlantic ridley sea turtles both forage and migrate through NJ
waters. While movement specific to migration is largely confined off-shore, foraging may occur both off-
shore and within the neritic zone. The bulk of the scientific literature which pertains to determining a home
range size, is based upon lower latitude habitats, relatively young individuals, and is predominantly focused
on the Atlantic green turtle. Using the mean of the home range estimates from the studies detailed below and
creating an average based upon those figures, produces a 9.6 km radius as the basis for a species occurrence
area for these three species.
Literature:
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
7710 Undetermi
ned
Dead Individual
Sighting
71.25
Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
7711 Undetermi
ned
Marine Telemetry:
Partial Activity Range
9.6 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Stays as is Yes
7713 Undetermi
ned
Occupied Habitat 9.6 km
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Blumenthal, J.M., J.L. Soloman, C.D. Bell, T.J. Austin, G. Ebanks-Petrie, M.S. Coyne, A.C.
Broderick, and B.J. Godley. 2006. Satellite tracking highlights the need for international
cooperation in marine turtle management. Endangered Species Research. 7: 1-11.
Migrations of mature marine turtles typically span hundreds or thousands of kilometers.
Godley, B.J., E.H.S.M. Lima, S. Akesson, A.C. Broderick, F. Glen, M.H. Godfrey, P. Luschi,
and G.C. Hays. 2003. Movement patterns of green turtles in Brazilian coastal waters
described by satellite tracking and flipper tagging. Marine Ecology Progress Series. 253: 279-
288.
The home range for some turtles feeding on macroalgae may encompass an area which spans 90 km
of coastline.
Kinzel, M.R. Green Sea Turtle Migration in the Gulf of Mexico. In: Marine Geography -
GIS for the Oceans and Seas. Breman, J. (Editor). ESRI Press.2002.
Home range for one individual was 2,745.63 sq km, while another was reported as being 336.317 sq
km.
Makowski, C., J.A. Seminoff, and M. Salmon. 2006. Home range and habitat use of juvenile
Atlantic green turtles (Chelonia mydas) on shallow reef habitats in Palm Beach, Florida,
USA. Marine Biology. 148: 1167-1179.
Home range areas measured with 100% minimum convex polygon and 95% fixed kernel estimators
varied from 0.69 to 5.05 sq km (mean = 2.38 sq km) and 0.73 to 4.89 sq km (mean = 2.09 sq km),
respectively. Averaging the mean results of both methods produces a home range size of 2.24 sq
km.
Mendonca, M.T. 1983. Movements and feeding ecology of immature green turtles (Chelonia
mydas) in a Floida lagoon. Copeia. 1013-1023.
Average home range = 2.88 sq km.
Renaud, M.L., J.A. Carpenter. 1994. Movements and submergence patterns of loggerhead
turtles (Caretta caretta) in the Gulf of Mexico determined through satellite telemetry.
Bulletin of Marine Science. 55: 1-15.
Average home range = 0.77 sq km.
Schmid, J.R. A.B. Bolten, K.A. Bjorndal, W.J. Lindberg, H.F. Percival, and P.D. Zwick.
2003. Home range and habitat use by Kemp’s ridley turtles in west-central Florida. Journal
of Wildlife Management. 67: 196-206.
Radio and sonic telemetry were utilized on subadult Kemp's ridley turtles to investigate home-range
size and habitat use in the coastal waters of west-central Florida from 1994 to 1996. Nine turtles
were tracked for up to 70 days after release and were found to occupy 5-30 sq km foraging ranges.
Seminoff, J.A., A. Resendiz, W.J. Nichols. 2002. Home range of green turtles, Chelonia
mydas, at a coastal foraging area in the Gulf of California, Mexico. Marine Ecology progress
Series. 242: 253-265.
Average home range = 16.62 sq km.
Whiting, S.D. and J.D. Miller. 1998. Short term foraging ranges of adult green turtles
(Chelonia mydas). Journal of Herpetology. 32(3): 330-337.
Adult green turtles may forage over larger areas than juveniles.
Mean foraging range = 315 ha (range = 84 - 850 ha).
Mean distance traveled per day = 3.0 km (range = 0.9 - 4.9 km).
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Davenport
Glyptemys muhlenbergii
Bog Turtle
Justification:
Glyptemys muhlenbergii is a habitat specialist that occupies wetlands that meet certain characteristics of
vegetation, soils, and, most importantly, hydrology. The life history of G. muhlenbergii is somewhat unique
in that it spends the majority of the year within the wetland complex and often does not venture for great
periods of time into the adjacent uplands and therefore the identification of wetlands occupied by the bog
turtle is critical to the recovery of this species. A percentage of wetlands with bog turtles are of a small
enough size that they are not currently identified as Wetlands in the 2007 Land Use/Land Cover data layer so
therefore polygons are hand digitized to reduce the chance of not capturing core habitat.
An additional 200 meters is generated around the Bog Turtle Colony polygons to account for turtle
movements not identified during fieldwork as well as habitat that is valuable to the colony, but was not
identified by the biologists. This new polygon is the Species Occurrence Area (SOA).
Literature:
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4762 N/A Hibernaculum 200 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4763 N/A Occupied Habitat Bog
Turtle
Model +
Hand
Digitized
Polygon
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Yes
4764 N/A On Road 200 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4765 N/A Suitable Habitat 200 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
No
Chase et al. 1989. Habitat Characteristics, Population Size, and Home Range of the Bog
Turtle, Clemmys muhlenbergii, in Maryland. Journal of Herpetology 23(4): 356-362.
Discusses bog turtle habitat use as mostly isolated to specific wetland types.
Morrow et al. 2001. Home Range and Movements of the Bog Turtle in Maryland. Journal of
Herpetology 35(1): 68-73.
Discusses use of wetlands as primary habitat for bog turtles throughout duration of study.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
Inferred minimum extent of habitat use for this species is 200 meters.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Zarate
Elaphe guttata guttata
Corn Snake
Justification:
All grasslands, and forests within 250 m of a documented corn snake sighting are consider to be critical
habitat for this species. Dead-on-road sightings are still used to value corn snake habitat despite the fact that
the observed and reported individual is no longer living. The explanation for this is based on the fact that
habitat for this species still remains within 250 meters of the DOR snake. Furthermore, even though the
individual that was killed along the road is no longer alive to make use of this habitat, it is assumed that other
snakes of this species live in the area an will make use of the habitat.
Corn snakes prefer upland habitats with sandy soils and pine-dominated forests (Beans and Niles 2003).
Corn snake are a fossorial species and activity range estimates for this species in the New Jersey pinelands
range from 11.3 - 24.8 acres (Zappalorti et al. 1983; Zappalorti and Rocco 1990). For the purposes of
creating a reasonable buffer that could be applied to corn snake sightings and to approximate habitat needs
for this species, these activity range estimates were converted into estimates of square footage and assumed to
be circular in configuration. Buffer distances (radii of the circular activity ranges) were then calculated and
ranged from 396 to 587 feet (120 - 179 m). However, because activity ranges for this species are often
oblong (Zappalorti, RT and R Gianluca) rather than circular, a buffer distance of 250 m is applied to all corn
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4883 N/A Occurrence by Den 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4884 N/A Telemetry: Partial
Activity Range
250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4885 N/A Occupied Habitat 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4886 N/A Nesting Area 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4887 N/A On Road 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4888 N/A Telemetry: Home
Range
250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4889 N/A Gestation Site 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4890 N/A Hibernaculum 250 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
snake sightings in order to capture the entire activity range for this species.
Literature:
Beans, BE and L Niles. 2003. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife of New Jersey. New
Brunswick, NJ: Rutger’s University Press.
N/A
New Jersey. Unpublished report to NJDEP, Division of Fish and Wildlife by Herpetological
Associates.
Zappalorti O Heck. 1988. A captive breeding program of the corn snake (Elaphe guttata)
with notes on a sampling program of released hatchlings in the New Jersey Pine Barrens. In.
Proceedings of the 12th International Herpetological Symposium on Captive Propagation and
Husbundry.
Zappalorti, RT and R Gianluca. 1990. Endangered and threatened snake studies and habitat
evaluations of the route of the proposed mule road extension, Berkely Township, Ocean
County, New Jersey.
Zappalorti, RT. 1993. Life history, ecology and management of the northern pine snake
(Pituophis melanoleucus melanoleucus). Unpublished report to NJDEP, Division of Fish and
Wildlife by Herpetological Associates.
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Golden
Terrapene carolina carolina
Eastern Box Turtle
Justification:
The eastern box turtle, Terrapene carolina, is the most terrestrial of New Jersey’s turtles. Although the box
turtle’s home range is usually no greater than 15 hectares, individuals routinely move between populations,
especially juveniles. When displaced from their home range, T. carolina is known to have some homing
ability outwards to 1.5 kilometers and individuals placed outside of this distance will take up occupancy at
the release point with mixed success.
As a special concern species, much of the state data collected on T. carolina is in the form of Herp Atlas
reports which are mapped on 1/6 USGS Quadrangles
Literature:
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5094 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5095 N/A Vernal Pool Non-
breeding
500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5096 N/A Hibernaculum 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5097 N/A Nesting Area 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5098 N/A On Road 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Dodd, C. K., Jr. 2001. North American box turtles: a natural history. University of Oklahoma
Press, Norman. 231 pp.
Comprehensive text on box turtle life history.
Dolbeer, R. A. 1969. Population density and home range size of the eastern box turtle
(Terrapene c. carolina) in eastern Tennessee. ASB Bulletin 16:49.
Provides home range estimates for a population of box turtles and general habitat requirements.
Ernst, C. H., R. W. Barbour, and J. E. Lovich. 1994. Turtles of the United States and Canada.
Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington, D.C. xxxviii + 578 pp.
Literature-based life history of the box turtle.
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
Inferred minimum extent of habitat use for this species is 500 meters.
Stickel, L. F. 1989. Home range behavior among box turtles (TERRAPENE C. CAROLINA)
of a bottomland forest in Maryland. J. Herpetol. 23:40-44.
Describes habitat use by box turtles and home range sizes. Movements to nesting areas, which are
critical to the viability of a population are often not calculated in an individual’s home range.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Zarate
Lampropeltis getula getula
Eastern Kingsnake
Justification:
Currently under review.
Literature:
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5104 N/A Telemetry: Partial
Activity Range
Need
Update
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5105 N/A Hibernaculum 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5106 N/A Telemetry: Home
Range
Need
Update
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5107 N/A On Road 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5108 N/A Occupied Habitat 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5109 N/A Gestation Site 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5110 N/A Occurrence by Den 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5111 N/A Nesting Area 300 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
N/A
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Golden
Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen
Northern Copperhead Snake
Justification:
Literature documenting the home range size of northern copperheads (Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen) is
scant as most literature focuses on habitat types used by this species rather than dispersal distances and home
range. One article by Fitch, 1960, documents the home range of Agkistrodon contortrix at 9.9 ha (.099 square
km), but the difference in habitat types between the study location and NJ is unclear. Additionally, the
research predates the use of radio-telemetry in snake research and therefore, it is possible the observations
documented by Fitch, 1960, represent dens and nearby basking/transient areas rather than foraging grounds.
More recently, Smith et al. (2009) reported the activity range of male copperheads in Connecticut ranging
from 6.09 to 44.49 ha with a mean of 17.49 plus or minus 2.68 ha, although a 1000 ac (~ 404 ha) study site
containing two hibernacula was used almost in its entirety by the local copperhead populations (Charles F.
Smith, pers. comm., 2009) and these figures may include sub-adult males with smaller dispersal distances.
Additionally, the furthest distance a male moved from the hibernacula was 769.5 plus or minus 73.6 m.
Philip Dunning (2009, unpub. data) found males in Pennsylvania 965.5 to 1,223 m from the hibernacula,
although these were not necessarily the furthest distances moved as these snakes were not tracked through an
entire active season. Similarities between the northern copperhead and the timber rattlesnake behavior
including males typically traveling greater distances than nongravid females, the importance of gestation
areas, basking sites and hibernacula due to the snakes’ affinity to these locations, and the need to provide a
natural buffer to the identified occupied habitat to minimize the effects of "edge" habitat (i.e., light pollution,
noise pollution, increased scavenger population) and permit larger males (and possibly nongravid females) to
disperse further in search of mates, foraging opportunities and basking sites warrant a similar approach to
identifying critical habitat for northern copperheads. There is currently no published literature
recommending the total hibernacula buffer required to adequately protect critical habitat for northern
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5112 N/A On Road 716 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5113 N/A Gestation Site 995 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5114 N/A Telemetry: Home
Range
716 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Stays as is Yes
5115 N/A Occurrence by Den 995 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5117 N/A Occupied Habitat 716 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5118 N/A Hibernaculum 995 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5119 N/A Telemetry: Partial
Activity Range
716 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Stays as is Yes
copperhead populations. As such, the ENSP has determined that a 995m radius buffer around dens is
required to do so. Using the larger annual home range data of eight adult males tracked by Smith in 2002 and
2003 to develop potential dispersal distances and the known dispersal distances of three males and one
subadult male tracked by Dunning in 2006 and 2009, the average dispersal distance was 822.67m. The kernel
home range excludes outliers and therefore in an effort to capture 95% of each den’s population, we have
added two standard errors (172m).
"Occurrence by Den" is related to early transient/basking areas, which also may be used as gestation sites.
These areas are critical sites near dens (thus the same model applies) that are important to the snakes upon
spring emergence and fall ingress. These areas provide both important early and late season basking sites
before the snakes move onto their foraging grounds or shed sites and prior to denning. "Gestation Site" is
often near the den but the average distance is unclear. These sites are critical to the survival of the northern
copperhead populations and are used for many generations. Young snakes follow scent trails, left by adult
females, back to the safety of their dens in the late fall. Due to the females’ condition and newborns’
inexperience, they are highly vulnerable to predation at these sites. Therefore, the same model has been
applied to known gestation sites in an effort to: 1) protect the site and travel corridors to/ from the den and 2)
to capture the den with the model.
"Occupied Habitat" and "On Road" refers to random sightings of northern copperheads whereby it is
impossible to determine the snake’s den location or critical habitat range. NJ has used all of the home range
data reported by Smith (2007) including two field seasons of data on five adult males and one field season of
data on three adult males having a mean home range equivalent to 656 meter (.66 km) radius buffer
(topography not considered). The kernel home range excludes outliers and therefore in an effort to capture
82% of the population potentially using the habitat, we have added 1.5 standard errors (60 m); providing a
716 meter radius buffer around all random observations and telemetry study locations.
"Telemetry Home Range" and "Telemetry Partial Activity Range" refers to observation locations collected
through radio-telemetry studies; "home range" referring to snakes whereby a full season of data was
collected, "partial activity range" referring to snakes whereby only part of the snake’s active season was
recorded. These locations will be entered as a continuous line of movement that will be given the same
buffer as randomly observed points in an effort to capture the home range territory of the snakes. The
snakes’ home range shift annually, but always retains a core. By buffering the line of activity, the ENSP is
attempting to capture all of the habitat used by an individual snake and allow for directional shifting of
snakes tracked through radio-telemetry,
Literature:
Dunning, Philip. 2006 and 2009 (unpublished data).
Maximum single migratory distance from den*: Pennsylvania male, 1,226 m (1.23 km);
Pennsylvania nongravid female**, 869 m (3.7 km)
Recorded single migratory distance from den*: adult male, 1,223.1 m (1.221 km); adult male,
1,226.5 m (1.227 km); adult male, 965.6 m (0.966 km); sub-adult male***, 1,158.7 m (1.159 km)
*Note: These snakes were not followed through a complete active season and therefore, their
migratory distances from the den(s) may not represent the snakes’ furthest distance traveled.
**Only one nongravid female’s distance was reported.
***Suspected sub-adult male due to size, but range is indicative of a mature male.
Fitch H. S. 1960. Autecology of the copperhead. Univ. of Kansas Publications Museum of
Natural History. 13:85-288 In: Roth, Eric. 2005 Spatial Ecology of a Cottonmouth
(Agkistrodon piscivorus) Population in East Texas. Journal of Herpetology. June 2005, 39
(2): 308-312.
N/A
Smith, Charles F. 2007. Sexual dimorphism, and the spatial and reproductive ecology of the
copperhead snake, Agkistrodon contortrix. Ph.D.; University of Connecticut. Pp. 201; AAT
3265803.
The following are the home ranges (ha) using the Animal Movement Ext., Kernal Home Range
(95%) per Smith (2007) of eight [suspected] adult males* during their 2002 and 2003 active
seasons: Snake 263: 34.93 ha (2002); 32.38 ha (2003). Snake 4GH: 11.16 ha (2003). Snake 96C:
35.51 ha (2002), 51.4 ha (2003). Snake KLC: 31.31 ha (2003). Snake 06A: 55.35 ha (2002), 68.99
ha (2003). Snake 104: 32.39 ha (2002), 25.5 ha (2003). Snake 71C: 2002: 28.36 ha. Snake 825:
31.39 ha(2002), 20.33 ha (2003).
*Suspected adult males due to reported home range.
Smith, Charles F., Gordon W. Schuett, Ryan L. Earley, and Kurt Schwenk. 2009. The spatial
and reproductive ecology of the copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) at the northeastern
extreme of its range. In press: 2010, Herpetological Monographs.
Mean size home ranges: Connecticut males*, 17.49 plus or minus 2.68 ha; Connecticut nongravid
females, 5.02 plus or minus 1.15 ha
Mean maximum migratory distance from den: Connecticut males*, 769.5 plus or minus 73.6 m;
Connecticut nongravid females, 363.1 plus or minus 63.8 m
*Note: These figures may include sub-adult male snakes with smaller home ranges and dispersal
distances.
Date researched: 3/30/2010
Last researched by: Schantz
Pituophis melanoleucus melanoleucus
Northern Pine Snake
Justification:
All grasslands, and forests within 500 m of a documented northern pine snake sighting are consider to be
critical habitat for this species. Dead-on-road sightings are still used to value pine snake habitat despite the
fact that the observed and reported individual is no longer living. The explanation for this is based on the fact
that habitat for this species still remains within 500 meters of the DOR snake. Furthermore, even though the
individual that was killed along the road is no longer alive to make use of this habitat, it is assumed that other
snakes of this species live in the area an will make use of the habitat.
This species is typically associated with dry upland habitats and can make long distance movements through
both upland (Burger and Zappalorti 1988; Zappalorti 1993) and, in some case, extensive wetland habitats
(Bien, personal communication). While home range estimates vary extensively from study to study, one
radio-telemetry study of this species conducted in the New Jersey Pinelands found that pine snakes had an
activity range of 5.9 to 116 acres (Zappalorti et al. 1983). For the purposes of creating a reasonable buffer
that could be applied to pine snake sightings to aproximate habitat needs, these activity range estimates were
converted into estimates of square footage (area calculation) and assumed to be circular in configuration.
Buffer distances (radii of the circular activity ranges) were then calculated and ranged from 286 to 1268 feet
(87-386 m). However, because activity ranges for this species are typically oblong (Zappalorti and Rocco
1990) rather than circular a buffer distance of 500 m is applied to all pine snake sightings in order to capture
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4899 N/A Gestation Site 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4900 N/A Telemetry: Home
Range
500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4901 N/A Hibernaculum 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
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a point and
buffer
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point and
buffer
Yes
4902 N/A On Road 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
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a point and
buffer
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point and
buffer
Yes
4903 N/A Nesting Area 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
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a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4904 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4905 N/A Telemetry: Partial
Activity Range
500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
Apply a
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4906 N/A Occurrence by Den 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
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Yes
the entire activity range for this species.
Literature:
Burger, J and RT Zappalorti. 1988. Habitat use in free-ranging pine snakes (Pituophis
melanoleucus melanoleucus) in the New Jersey Pine Barrens. Herpetologica 44(1): 48-55.
N/A
New Jersey. Unpublished report to NJDEP, Division of Fish and Wildlife by Herpetological
Associates.
N/A
Zappalorti, RT and R Gianluca. 1990. Endangered and threatened snake studies and habitat
evaluations of the route of the proposed mule road extension, Berkely Township, Ocean
County, New Jersey.
N/A
Zappalorti, RT, EW Johnson, and Z Leszczynski. 1983. The ecology of the northern pine
snake (Pituophis melanoleucus melanoleucus) in southern New Jersey, with special notes on
habitat and nesting behavior. Bulletin, Chicago Herpetological Society 18:57-72.
N/A
Zappalorti, RT. 1993. Life history, ecology and management of the northern pine snake
(Pituophis melanoleucus melanoleucus). Unpublished report to NJDEP, Division of Fish and
Wildlife by Herpetological Associates.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Golden
Clemmys guttata
Spotted Turtle
Justification:
The spotted turtle, Clemmys guttata, frequents a variety of wetland habitat types throughout its range,
although terrestrial habitat use is documented. The type of wetland that the species uses may shift seasonally
causing the animal to travel regularly across fields, through forests, or employ wetlands as a corridor between
preferred habitats. In some cases, females will move large distances from wetlands to find suitable nesting
areas.
Literature:
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
5089 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5090 N/A Hibernaculum 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5091 N/A Nesting Area 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5092 N/A On Road 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
5093 N/A Vernal Pool 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
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buffer
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point and
buffer
Yes
NatureServe. 2006. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life (web application).
Version 4.7. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer.
Inferred minimum extent of habitat use for this species is 500 meters.
Date researched: 1/1/2006
Last researched by: Zarate
Crotalus horridus horridus
Timber Rattlesnake
Justification:
Timber rattlesnakes’ home ranges vary according to sex and age class. Reproductively mature males
typically travel greater distances than females and young males in search of mates and/or food resources.
ENSP research has shown that sub-adult males often venture farther than non-gravid females, while juveniles
and yearlings [males] may maintain a smaller activity range. Non-gravid females typically maintain a larger
activity range than gravid females, and gravid females may venture out to forage early in the season, but
return to their gestation site/ birthing rookery by early July which is typically within 500 meters (.3 miles) of
her den. Rattlesnake researchers agree that the majority of a den’s population will use the habitat within a 1.5
mile (2.4 km) radius of the den with some of the larger males venturing beyond this distance in search of
mates. However, telemetry research has shown that males (and less typically, non-gravid females) will travel
greater distances in search of food, basking areas, and mates (Brown 1993, Martin 1993, ENSP research
2006). Therefore, the ENSP has determined that a larger occurrence area (4 km radius around a den) is
required to adequately protect critical habitat for timber rattlesnake populations.
"Occurrence by Den" is related to early transient/ basking areas, which also may be used as gestation sites.
These are critical sites near dens (thus the same model applies) that are important to the snakes upon spring
emergence. These areas provide both important early and late season basking sites before the snakes move
onto their foraging grounds or shed sites and prior to denning. "Gestation Site" is often near the den but can
be up to 500 meters (.3 miles) from the den. These sites are critical to the survival of timber rattlesnake
populations in the northern region and are used for many generations. Young snakes follow scent trails, left
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4844 N/A Telemetry: Home
Range
1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
Apply a
buffer
Apply a
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4845 N/A Gestation Site 4.0
Kilometer
Buffer
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buffer
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a point and
buffer
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point and
buffer
Yes
4846 N/A Occurrence by Den 4.0
Kilometer
Buffer
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buffer
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a point and
buffer
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point and
buffer
Yes
4847 N/A Hibernaculum 4.0
Kilometer
Buffer
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buffer
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a point and
buffer
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point and
buffer
Yes
4849 N/A Telemetry: Partial
Activity Range
1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
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buffer
Apply a
buffer
Stays as is Yes
4850 N/A On Road 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
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buffer
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a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4851 N/A Occupied Habitat 1.0
Kilometer
Buffer
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point and
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Yes
by adult females, back to the safety of their dens in the late fall. Due to the females’ condition and newborns’
inexperience, they are highly vulnerable to predation at these sites. Therefore, the same model has been
applied to known gestation sites in an effort to: 1) protect the site and travel corridors to/ from the den, and;
2) to capture the den within the model.
"Occupied Habitat" and "On Road" refers to random sightings of rattlesnakes whereby it is impossible to
determine the snake’s den location or critical habitat range. ENSP’s research has shown adult males to have
a mean home range of 263 ha (651 ac); equivalent to .88 kilometer radius buffer (topography not
considered). The kernel home range excludes outliers and therefore in an effort to capture these critical
locations, we have added a 1.5 standard error (.12 km), capturing 82% of the population. As such, these sites
have been given a 1 kilometer radius buffer in an effort to capture the snakes’ approximate home range,
valuing all suitable habitat intersected by this buffer as potential critical habitat.
"Telemetry Home Range" and "Telemetry Partial Activity Range" refers to observation locations collected
through radio-telemetry studies; "home range" referring to snakes whereby a full season of data was
collected, "partial activity range" referring to snakes whereby only part of the snake’s active season was
recorded. These locations will be entered as a continuous line of movement that will be given the same
buffer as randomly observed points in an effort to capture the home range territory of the snakes. The
snakes’ home range shifts annually, but always retains a core. By buffering the line of activity, ENSP is
attempting to capture all of the habitat used by an individual snake.
Literature:
Brown, William S. 1993. Timber Rattlesnake: Habitat. In Biology, Status, and Management
of the Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus Horridus): A Guide for Conservation (Joseph T. Collins
ed.). Museum of Natural History - Dyche Hall, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas.
Pp. 10-15.
Transient habitat is also used by females during their reproductive years for gestating and birthing.
Brown, William S. 1993. Timber Rattlesnake: Land Protection. In Biology, Status, and
Management of the Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus Horridus): A Guide for Conservation
(Joseph T. Collins ed.). Museum of Natural History - Dyche Hall, The University of Kansas,
Lawrence, Kansas. Pp. 39-40.
-Home ranges average 160 - 500 ac (65 - 202 ha) for males; 40 - 100 ac (16 - 40 ha) for nongravid
females.
-A 1.5 mile (2.4 km) radius centered around den would encompass most of the habitat used by
snakes from that den. An additional buffer of 1 mile (for a total of 2.5 mile radius, 4.0 km radius) is
recommended to protect large males and some nongravid females that venture further and to buffer
the habitat used by the greater portion of the individual den population from human activity.
Brown, William S. 1993. Timber Rattlesnake: Ecology. In Biology, Status, and Management
of the Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus Horridus): A Guide for Conservation (Joseph T. Collins
ed.). Museum of Natural History - Dyche Hall, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas.
Pp. 15-24.
Mean size home ranges:
-New Jersey males: 207 ha
-New Jersey nongravid females: 42 ha
-New Jersey gravid females: 22 ha
Mean maximum migratory distance from den:
-New Jersey males: 4.07 km (2.5 mi)
-New Jersey nongravid females: 2.05 km (1.3 mi)
Maximum single migratory distance from den:
-New Jersey males: 7.2 km (4.5 mi)
-New Jersey nongravid females: 3.7 km (2.3 mi)
Martin, W.H. 1993. Reproduction of the Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus Horridus) in the
Appalachian Mountains. Journal of Herpetology 27(2):133-143.
Females spent most of their gestation period...usually located within 500 m (.3 miles) of their
overwintering dens.
Schantz, Kris. 2006. Expert opinion. Endangered and Nongame Species Program Timber
Rattlesnake Telemetry Research 1999-2000, 2003-2005.
Mean size home ranges (using Kernel home range at 95% confidence interval): New Jersey males:
263 ha (651 ac), roughly equivalent to .88 km radius - 1SE (68% of pop/data): 0.88 km + 0.08 km
= 0.96 km radius; 1SE (82% of pop/data): 0.88 km + (1.5 x 0.08 km) = 1.0 km radius; 2SE: (95%
of pop/data): 0.88 km + (2 x 0.08 km) = 1.04 km radius
Maximum single migratory distance from den: New Jersey males’: 3.6 km (2.2 mi)
Date researched: 10/1/2008
Last researched by: Schantz
Glyptemys insculpta
Wood Turtle
Justification:
A radius of one mile as the starting point for wood turtle habitat mapping was chosen based upon ecological
studies that demonstrated wood turtle movements of 800m (Harding and Bloomer), 1km (Mitchell 1991), and
1.9km and 3.6km (Quinn and Tate 1991) along riparian corridors. Carroll and Ehrenfeld (1978) demonstrated
that wood turtles displaced up to 2km were well within their home range. In addition to linear movements
following watercourses, it is well documented that wood turtles travel beyond the riparian zone during the
summer months. The 322m buffer represents a mean distance wood turtles traveled from their
hibernation/breeding streams according to various natural history studies (Burt and Collins n.d.; Ernst 1986;
Harding and Bloomer 1979; Strang 1983; Kaufmann 1992, 1995; Brewster and Brewster 1991; Farrell and
Graham 1991; Quinn and Tate 1991), as well as ongoing research (R.L. Burke, Hofstra University; J.L.
Behler, Wildlife Conservation Society).
Literature:
Reptilia
SpcF
LID
LUC Feature Label Buffer Size Point Rule Line Rule Poly Rule LP
4866 N/A Nesting Area 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
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a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4867 N/A Hibernaculum 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4868 N/A On Road 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4869 N/A Vernal Pool 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
Convert to
a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
4870 N/A Occupied Habitat 500 Meter
Buffer
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buffer
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a point and
buffer
Convert to a
point and
buffer
Yes
Brewster, K. N., and C. M. Brewster. 1991. Movement and microhabitat use by juvenile wood
turtles introduced into a riparian habitat. J. Herpetol. 25:379-382.
N/A
Burt, C.J. and D.E. Collins. Population parameters and summer home range-habitat
relationships of the wood turtle (Clemmys insculpta). Unpub. Manuscript. 26pp.
N/A
Carroll, T. E. and D. W. Ehrenfeld. 1978. Intermediate-range homing in the wood turtle,
Clemmys insculpta. Copeia 1978(1): 117-126.
N/A
Ernst, C.H. 1986. Environmental temperatures and activities in the wood turtle, Clemmys
insculpta. J. of Herp. 20(2):222-229.
N/A
Farrell, R. F. and T. E. Graham. 1991. Ecological notes on the turtle Clemmys insculpta in
northwestern New Jersey. J. Herp. 25(1): 1-9.
N/A
Harding, J. H. and T. J. Bloomer. 1979. The wood turtle, Clemmys insculpta...a natural
history. HERP Bull. N.Y. Herp. Soc. 15(1): 9-26.
N/A
Kaufmann, J. H. 1992. Habitat use by wood turtles in central Pennsylvania. J. Herpetol.
26:315-321.
N/A
Kaufmann, J. H. 1995. Home ranges and movements of wood turtles, Clemmys insculpta, in
central Pennsylvania. Copeia 1995:22-27.
N/A
Mitchell, J. C. 1991. Amphibians and reptiles. Pages 411-76 in K. Terwilliger (coordinator).
Virginia's Endangered Species: Proceedings of a Symposium. McDonald and Woodward
Publishing Company, Blacksburg, Virginia.
N/A
Quinn, N. W. S., and D. P. Tate. 1991. Seasonal movements and habitat of wood turtles
(Clemmys insculpta) in Algonquin Park, Canada. J. Herpetol. 25:217-220.
N/A
Strang, C. A. 1983. Spatial and temporal activity patterns in two terrestrial turtles. J.
Herpetol. 17:43-47.
N/A
Date researched: 1/1/2007
Last researched by: Zarate